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ARTICLE · 24 APRIL 2024

A Guide To Utilising Schemes For Developments For Renewable Energy Projects

Shepherd and Wedderburn
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Since 2007, schemes for development have been available for renewable development projects on crofts or common grazings.

United KingdomEnergy and Natural Resources
Stephanie Hepburn
Stephanie Hepburn
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Since 2007, schemes for development have been available for renewable development projects on crofts or common grazings. This guide outlines the details of these schemes and highlights the necessary legal requirements when seeking approval from the Scottish Land Court.

What is a scheme for development?

Schemes for development have become the most common method of dealing with crofting tenure to allow a renewable energy project to proceed.

Historically, schemes for development were only used for large-scale projects but we are now seeing them utilised for smaller projects as well.

An application is made to the Scottish Land Court for consent for a renewable energy project proceeding in accordance with a scheme for development under Section 19A of the Crofters (Scotland) Act 1993 ("the 1993 Act").

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