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ID sylw: 107951

Derbyniwyd: 07/03/2025

Ymatebydd: Rainier Developments Ltd

Asiant : Pegasus Group

Paragraph 165(c) of the NPPF states plans should identify opportunities for development to draw its energy supply from decentralised energy supply systems. This is what the draft policy seeks to achieve. It does not make this obligatory and simply encourages use and development of such systems, with regard given to viability considerations. This is supported, as it means the policy will not risk undermining the effectiveness and deliverability of the plan where it is not possible for a scheme to comply with this.

The draft policy states developments will be required to demonstrate a ‘thermal master planning approach’ to maximise energy efficiency opportunities. Clarity should be provided on what this means for developers, along with clear justification for including this within the policy.

The draft policy will require an Energy Statement to be submitted as part of a planning application. It is acknowledged there is support for this requirement within the evidence base, with the Climate Evidence on Renewables and Decentralised Energy Opportunities report recommending this. The building performance standards which Energy Statements will need to demonstrate are met should not exceed the requirements of the national Building Regulations.