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Advice to Stratus Environmental Limited

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Enquiry

From
Stratus Environmental Limited
Date advice given
24 March 2016
Enquiry type
Email

I’m aware that generating station projects above 50MW in England require consent under the 2008 Planning Act, and PINS manages the application process on behalf of the Secretary of State. In Wales there has been a recent change, so that proposals above 10MW (but under 250MW) will be handled by PINS, on behalf of Welsh Ministers, and on behalf of the SoS above 350MW.

My question to you is whether the capacity threshold is thermal or electrical capacity, as I believe this can be quite different. The proposal in question is a set of diesel generators.

If we assume a 10MW project in Wales will be dealt with by PINS, are we able to request pre-application advice on the project from PINS, or would be seek this from the LPA?

Advice given

Thank you for your email enquiry regarding your proposal for a generating station in Wales.

With regard to your first query asking whether the capacity threshold for generating stations is defined as thermal or electrical capacity.

Our understanding is that "capacity" has the same meaning as in the Electricity Act 1989 - namely electricity generating capacity. I understand that this would be the same interpretation with regard to the revised legislation.

Secondly, you ask whether you are able to request pre-application advice on the project from PINS, or would be seek this from the LPA.

As you are aware from the 1 March 2016, planning applications for Developments of National Significance (DNS) will be made to Welsh Ministers; Planning Inspectorate (PINS) Wales will administer the applications. I can confirm that PINS Wales does offer pre-application advice and have prepared a set of Guidance notes which can be found here;

http://gov.wales/topics/planning/developcontrol/developments-of-national-significance/?lang=en

Applicants who wish to submit a request for Pre-Application Advice, submit formal notification of intention to submit a DNS application or submit an application should contact the PINS Wales at the following email address dns.wales@pins.gsi.gov.uk or telephone 029 2082 3308.