The Federation of Wholesale Distributors has called on government to review the process of obtaining planning permission for sustainable energy projects, as members face delays in the installation of renewables.
The trade body said the current system was not fit for purpose, and that government should act now to prevent wholesalers switching to cheaper and less environmentally friendly options such as diesel generators.
It comes amid growing frustration from Northern Ireland based wholesaler Lynas Foodservice at the slow progress of its renewables project.
The company said its plan would generate enough power to take 750 homes off the grid in Coleraine, but was being held in a queue behind other domestic applications.
Lynas has set aside around £3m to complete the project, which includes installing additional solar panels, wind power and batteries to store excess electricity generated on site.
However, despite the application for a wind turbine being submitted in late August, the business has been told that, at best, it will be approved by the end of March.
Additionally, despite Lynas already having solar panels on the roof of its depot, it will have to undergo a second planning application to install more on the same roof.
“The government need to engage with other users of power to help move them from a non-renewable to a renewable energy situation,” said MD Andrew Lynas.
“If we’re serious about net zero by 2050, the government should put some sort of fast-track process in place to prioritise important planning applications.
”The dream is that we might get our application through in seven or eight months, but in normal business we wouldn’t ever think that that was OK.”
FWD head of engagement Lyndsey Cambridge said: “It is disappointing to hear councils procrastinating on planning decisions which are aimed at minimising a wholesaler’s reliance on the National Grid.
“Energy bills are through the roof, in some cases adding millions to wholesalers’ bottom lines. The current system does not appear to be fit for purpose and is pushing businesses to pursue options such as diesel generators.”
No comments yet