Planning and Energy Act 2008

Long title

A Bill to enable local planning authorities to set requirements for energy generation and energy efficiency in local plans

Summary

<p>The Bill would allow local councils to set targets in their areas for on-site renewable energy, on-site low carbon electricity and energy efficiency standards in addition to national requirements. The Bill would cover England and Wales.</p><p><strong>Key areas</strong></p><ul><li>It would also require developers to source at least 10 per cent of any new building&rsquo;s energy from renewable sources, implementing nationwide the so-called &lsquo;Merton Rule&rsquo;, named after the sustainable planning policy first adopted by the London Borough of Merton</li><li>The Government has implemented policies in this area, notably the Planning Policy Statement on Climate Change, issued by the Government on 17 December 2007 after public consultation. Some councils, such as Merton and Woking, have already adopted environmentally friendly strategies but the picture across councils in England and Wales is mixed. </li></ul>

Progress through Parliament

1. 1st reading· Commons

   5 December 2007 – 5 December 2007

2. 2nd reading· Commons

   25 January 2008 – 25 January 2008

3. Committee stage· Commons

   20 February 2008 – 20 February 2008

4. Report stage· Commons

   9 May 2008 – 9 May 2008

5. 3rd reading· Commons

   9 May 2008 – 9 May 2008

6. 1st reading· Lords

   12 May 2008 – 12 May 2008

7. 2nd reading· Lords

   13 June 2008 – 13 June 2008

8. Committee stage· Lords

   4 July 2008 – 4 July 2008

9. Report stage· Lords

   21 July 2008 – 21 July 2008

10. 3rd reading· Lords

    8 October 2008 – 8 October 2008

11. Consideration of Lords amendments· Commons

    17 October 2008 – 17 October 2008

12. Royal Assent· Unassigned

    13 November 2008 – 13 November 2008