Soaring demand for the installation of photovoltaic (PV) panels on existing buildings is leading to uncertainties in planning, with very little precedent set for what is and isn’t allowed when it comes to the impact on neighbouring properties. It is clear, though, that developers and contractors must start factoring such considerations into their plans.

Demand for the retrofitting of PV panels is driven primarily by the commercial need to meet impending EPC targets, though factors such as spiralling energy costs are also coming into play. There have been a few high-profile instances, over the past few years, where planning laws and procedures have been called into question over the presence of solar panels on neighbouring properties.

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