Demand for ‘green home’ rebates
Households should receive council tax rebates to encourage them to install solar panels and wind turbines, an independent think tank claims. The New Local Government Network says planning laws should be relaxed to increase the take-up of green energy.
It also suggests local authorities could offer interest-free loans towards the cost of installation.
But the Campaign to Protect Rural England says precious landscapes must be safeguarded.
Currently the government offers a grant of up to 30% towards the cost of installing wind turbines or solar panels.
It has also been consulting on whether they should be permitted without planning permission where the impact on neighbours is minimal.
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A typical domestic turbine system providing one to six kilowatts costs from £1,500
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They can be rooftop-mounted or stand-alone
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Rotor diameters range from 1-11m and stand-alone models from 6-12m in height
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They usually require planning permission regardless of size
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Visual impact and noise are the main concerns in planning
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The government’s low carbon buildings programme provides grants (maximum of £2,500)