To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to outline (i) the indicative timelines; and (ii) the format for the review into Renewable Energy Planning.

My decision to review regional planning policy for renewable and low carbon energy was announced on 21 April 2021. In progressing this review, I am mindful of how this issue interfaces with the emerging DfE led Energy Strategy and that the draft policy options for that Strategy have been recently issued for consultation. Substantive work on this review of renewable energy planning policy will be progressed as soon as possible in parallel with the draft Energy Strategy.

The planning policy review will be taken forward in accordance with established policy making best practice. The first step in this process will be engaging with the Infrastructure Committee early next month. A detailed policy development process will be required taking account of the emerging Energy Strategy, the previous planning policy call for evidence, the independent consultant’s report that my Department commissioned and wider research. As part of this there will be a period of engagement with a wide range of key stakeholders in the Autumn, including the Infrastructure Committee. I aim to publish a draft renewable and low carbon energy planning policy for public consultation by March 2022.

I also expect that any new policy arising from the review will be referred to the Executive, prior to publication in final form.