Local strategies for renewable energy : Policy approaches in England and Wales

The stimulation of renewable energy technologies by the UK government in the 1990s has focused attention on the localized impact of these systems. This paper examines local-level policies to regulate the siting of electricity generating installations through an analysis of government guidance to local planning authorities and the use and interpretation of this guidance by the 457 local planning authorities in England and Wales. Comment is made regarding progress in policy formulation and the variations in technology coverage and policy approach. Problems encountered in policy formulation are discussed and amendments to government guidance suggested.