GREEN-THINKING residents in Nidderdale are sparking a steady stream of planning applications to make their homes more energy efficient and cut their fuel bills.
Most plans have been to erect rooftop solar panels and domestic wind turbines at private homes.
But some have been for ground source heat pumps, similar to those installed at homes in Copt Hewick, near Ripon, where power bills have been significan
tly cut.
The Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) committee said the Government planned to abolish the need to apply for permission for what is known as micro-generation equipment last spring.
The AONB highlights the growing issue of homes being turned into mini power stations in its spring newsletter.
It pointed out that, in December, the Government's response to consultation was to go ahead and scrap the need for permission, despite protests from some quarters.
The Government now says local planning committees could decide to control equipment in sensitive places, like areas of natural beauty in Nidderdale.
This would be via a direction removing the right to install micro-generation equipment without permission.
The AONB said it is trying to encourage householders to invest in the new technology while at the same time protect the area's special landscape.
Officials could press local planning departments to insist on applications being made to install any equipment.
Alternatively, they are considering accepting the changes in regulations and working with planners to offer advice on siting and design.
The public can now give their views via nidderdaleaonb@harrogate.gov.uk.
Meanwhile, farmers in the Nidderdale area are being encouraged to look at opportunities for farm businesses to improve energy efficiency.
This would contribute to reducing CO2 as well as taking advantage of business opportunities and savings.
An AONB report said the aim was to savings.
"The ultimate aim of the project is to offer cost savings to farmers, enabling their business to be more cost effective.
"If they generate a greater income this tends to be reflected in the local economy, for example, with the hiring of local labour to assist in the business or to expand the operation.”
The full article contains 362 words and appears in Pately & Nidderdale Herald newspaper.
