Clean Energy Projects Planning System 2023-07-04
2023-07-04
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The adequacy of the UK's planning system for clean energy projects is being questioned, with concerns over the pace of reform.
What discussions has he had with the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities on the adequacy of the planning system for clean energy projects?
My Department has been working closely with the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities on delivering the proposals in the published action plan for reforming and speeding up the nationally significant infrastructure project planning process. An important part of those reforms involves updating and strengthening the national policy statements for energy.
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Assessment & feedback
The answer does not provide specifics about discussions or adequacy of the current system.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
James Robottom, head of onshore wind at RenewableUK, criticized the government's consultation process as hindering investment in the onshore wind industry.
Last weekend, James Robottom said that he does not expect much from the Government's consultation on planning. He stated obstacles to new onshore wind development would severely hinder investment and increase costs for families by £180 annually. Is it time to remove this useless Government?
This useless Government who have delivered 43% renewables on to the grid! The consultation on national policy statements closed on 23 June, and the Government remains on track to present them to Parliament by the end of 2023.
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Assessment & feedback
The question was about the impact of the consultation process. The answer criticizes the opposition without addressing Robottom's concerns.
Criticizing The Opposition
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
Wiltshire, being second largest in England for solar farms, faces concerns over the cumulative impact on grade 3a and 3b agricultural land.
Local authorities have a presumption in favour of solar, but should they not also consider the cumulative effect of solar farms? If the new Red Barn project at Kington St Michael is added, it will be one of the largest solar farms in Britain. Will the Minister include a presumption against solar farms on grade 3a and 3b agricultural land?
Food security is incredibly important, and we will prioritise less productive land for the deployment of solar farms. Our reforms aim to ensure that infrastructure developers consider how projects can address community concerns, engaging with them regularly during pre-application stages.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific ask about presumption against solar farms was not directly addressed.
Response accuracy