Blowing red tape aside: how new wind turbine planning rules could unlock energy opportunities

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) has launched a consultation on proposals to introduce a new permitted development right (PDR) for small, non‑domestic wind turbines in England. The consultation is open until 10 June 2026.

This marks a significant moment in the government’s wider effort to expand low‑carbon energy generation and remove barriers that have long restricted small‑scale onshore wind development.

DESNZ proposes a new PDR that would allow businesses, farms and public sector organisations to install a single small onshore wind turbine without the need for a full planning application – if installations meet defined conditions and limitations.

The proposed PDR will enable one turbine up to 30m in height on non‑domestic sites, including agricultural holdings, commercial premises, schools and public sector land. To manage potential impacts, the PDR will be subject to restrictions on noise, visuals and environmental impact. Considerations have also been set out regarding separation and buffer distances.

The consultation does not suggest the inclusion of the PDR in protected landscapes, conservation areas, world heritage sites or within the curtilage of listed buildings. The CLA is currently analysing the impact of these restrictions on its members.

There is no proposal to change the existing PDR for domestic wind turbines and no plans to enable repowering or community energy via PDR. The government is, however, seeking further views on how to best support these schemes.

It is clear within the consultation that DESNZ is aware of onshore wind schemes being held back due to high upfront costs, delayed statutory planning timeframes and the level of risk involved for applicants entering the planning process. These are all arguments that the CLA has put forward as part of the Rural Powerhouse campaign, urging the government to expand various PDRs.

This new right will streamline the system and create more certainty for landowners and rural businesses who wish to invest in renewable energy.

For many CLA members, particularly farmers and diversified rural enterprises, the proposed PDR could:

• lower the barriers to generating on‑site renewable electricity
• reduce long‑term energy costs
• increase energy resilience
• support decarbonisation goals

A single turbine up to 30 metres could offer a viable option for reducing grid dependence, especially where consumption is relatively high (e.g. cold stores, workshops, grain dryers, tourism enterprises).

While the introduction of a new PDR will help alleviate issues related to planning, the consultation does not address the wider issue of grid connectivityavailability. Members considering installing a turbine must still work with their local Distribution Network Operators (DNO) to secure a suitable connection, although, dealing with DNOs can often be a longer process than planning itself. The majority of single turbines will likely be for self-supply, which will limit the level of power export, meaning grid connection should be easier to achieve than for larger renewables projects.

Large‑scale or multi‑turbine developments will still require full planning permission under existing rules.

The CLA is analysing the consultation in detail and preparing a formal response to ensure that the practical needs of members are considered and that the PDR will be workable in practice. This consultation presents a practical opportunity for rural businesses and could genuinely enable small‑scale wind deployment without unnecessary red tape.

If you would like further information on the consultation or how to prepare your own response, please contact Shannon Fuller or Graham Clark.