On 29 November 2024, ADBA submitted a response to DESNZ’s Electricity Infrastructure Consenting in Scotland emphasising the important role AD must play in Scotland’s sustainable electricity generation future.
ADBA strongly supports Scotland’s proposed reforms to streamline electricity infrastructure consenting. Key improvements include mandatory pre-application requirements that will help developers engage more effectively with communities early in the process. This is particularly valuable for AD projects, which often require careful considerations of operational processes and community benefits.
The new Acceptance Stage will provide much-needed certainty that compliant applications will progress smoothly. For AD developers, this helps with project planning and investor confidence. The streamlined approach to amendments is important given the fact that AD projects often need technical adjustments based on feedstock arrangements and grid connection requirements.
What does it mean for the AD sector?
The reforms are particularly timely for two growing sectors: upgrading legacy AD plants and developing new Small on Farm AD (SOFAD) projects. Many existing plants could benefit from modernisation to enhance efficiency and grid export capabilities. Meanwhile, SOFAD represents an important growth area for smaller-scale, farm-based installations.
While ADBA supports charging fees for pre-application functions, we emphasise these must remain proportionate for smaller-scale renewable projects. The proposed 6-week statutory appeal timeframe, replacing the current 3-month judicial review window, will provide greater certainty and reduce delays. To further improve the process, we recommend:
- Making the Anaerobic Digestion Certification Scheme (ADCS) mandatory to streamline technical assessments
- Implementing comprehensive digital solutions for submissions and tracking
- Providing technology-specific guidance, particularly for SOFAD operators
- Ensuring dedicated specialist staff at the Energy Consents Unit
These reforms mark a significant step forward in accelerating Scotland’s renewable energy deployment while maintaining robust environmental and community safeguards. For more information, contact our Policy Team at policysupport@adbioresources.org.
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