Renewables move should be incentivised - developer

Guernsey’s Development and Planning Authority (DPA) announced last week that solar panels or alternative renewable energy technology will be required for all new housing and commercial projects on the island. The decision follows consultations with stakeholders, including the Committees for Economic Development and Environment and Infrastructure, though it has not been formally included in the current Island Development Plan (IDP). Paul Nobes, managing director of Infinity Group, praised the move but called for government grants to incentivize developers beyond the minimum requirements. His firm already integrates renewable systems into most projects, but he warned that cost pressures could lead to suboptimal installations. Nobes suggested grants for recommended solar panel quantities could ensure a more meaningful impact. Legal experts expressed skepticism about the DPA’s authority to enforce the change unilaterally. Chris Crew, senior planning consultant at Collas Crill, argued the policy should have been debated during the IDP review process, calling the current approach a ‘unilateral change.’ Alex Whitmore, director at PF+A, agreed the decision lacked transparency but acknowledged its intent to reduce carbon footprints. Guernsey Electricity welcomed the announcement while cautioning about grid stability if renewable connections are not managed carefully. The utility emphasized the need for coordinated planning to maintain a secure electricity supply as behind-the-meter renewables scale up. DPA President Neil Inder defended the decision, stating it aligns with Policy GP9 of the IDP and that consultations confirmed broad support. However, concerns remain about the policy’s legal standing and potential to slow progress if developers prioritize cost over effectiveness.