If you install an electricity-generating technology from a renewable or low-carbon source such as solar photovoltaic panels, the government’s Feed-In Tariff Scheme (FIT) could mean you receive money from your energy supplier. You can be paid for the electricity you generate, even if you use it yourself, and for any surplus electricity you export to the grid. And of course you’ll also save money on your electricity bill, because you’ll be using your own electricity. There has been a lot of interest in the scheme, but the question has arisen as to whether or not planning permission is required. We can confirm after discussions with the Wycombe Planning Office that there is a presumption to allow solar panels as long as the proposal fits certain criteria which are detailed in the government’s Planning Portal. Properties which are “listed” or are in a conservation area (not to be confused with AONB) such as Great Hampden or West Wycombe will still need to apply for planning permission.