New rules strenghten the case for onshore wind power – ​Gary McGovern – Scotsman

There is growing evidence that changes made to planning policy a year ago are having a material and positive impact on the ability of onshore wind developers to obtain consent for their projects in Scotland.

The fourth version of the national planning framework (NPF4), which took effect on 13 February, provides a strengthened need case for onshore wind projects and enhances the weight given to combatting the climate crises by decision-makers over other factors that can weigh against consent being granted – including concerns raised about the visual impact of wind farms or their effect on local landscapes.

The policy change has already resulted in the consenting of several projects that would not have been approved under the old policy and supports developers that are now exploring other sites that may have previously been considered unlikely to obtain consent.  https://www.scotsman.com/business/new-rules-strenghten-the-case-for-onshore-wind-power-gary-mcgovern-4529518?fbclid=IwAR2w3yOdi3nw0iP6iADX3tOLGQy5Sng28YTzjNvNkv9U3_YdqEKz6AvyPqM