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Offshore Generating Stations: Applications for Consent

Renewables and low carbon·Instrument·Updated ** 2026-04-05·1 min read

Page type: primary-anchored (mirrors Electricity (Offshore Generating Stations)(Applications for Consent) Regulations 2006, SI 2006/2064)

Offshore Generating Stations: Applications for Consent

The Electricity (Offshore Generating Stations) (Applications for Consent) Regulations 2006 set out the procedural requirements for applying for consent under Electricity Act 1989 s.36 to build or operate offshore generating stations in England and Wales.

Primary source: ~/knowledge/sources/legislation/uk/si-2006-2064-offshore-consent.md

Last updated: 2026-04-05


Scope

This instrument governs applications for s.36 consent for offshore generating stations located within the Renewable Energy Zone or England and Wales territorial waters. It does not extend to Scotland, which has its own offshore consent regime.

For projects exceeding 100 MW, the Planning Act 2008 Development Consent Order (DCO) regime has largely superseded this route. The Regulations remain relevant for sub-100 MW offshore projects and extensions to existing consented stations.


Application procedure

Publication (Reg 4)

Applicants must publish notices in local newspapers (two successive weeks), Lloyd's List, national newspapers, relevant fishing trade journals, and the London Gazette.

Service (Reg 5)

Notices must be served on statutory consultees: JNCC, Environment Agency, heritage bodies, Maritime and Coastguard Agency, and relevant harbour authorities.

Objections (Reg 7)

Minimum 28-day period for objections. Relevant planning authorities have 4 months.


Fees (Reg 9)

Capacity Fee
Up to 200 MW GBP 5,000
200 to 500 MW GBP 12,000
Over 500 MW GBP 20,000
Extension only GBP 1,000

Fee levels reflect 2006 prices.


Cross-references

  • Electricity Act 1989, s.36: the substantive consent power
  • Energy Act 2004, s.188: Renewable Energy Zone provisions
  • Planning Act 2008: DCO regime for >100 MW projects