Do I need planning permission?
Permission is not required in Guernsey if the panels are not facing the road.
Many systems are installed behind the house, so are unseen and do not need permission. If you can see the panels from the road that's fine – as long as not directly facing the road. If the solar system is going in as part of an existing building development, permission is required (information based on planning law as of May 2020). We are able to handle planning applications for you should it be needed. We have never had a refusal, in actual fact States of Guernsey policy views solar as strategically important.
However, we feel the current planning restriction is too onerous in one sense and too free in another and results in either a slower installation process or systems going in that are not so aesthetically pleasing. We are pushing for exemptions for systems facing the highway – BUT with a big caveat: that any solar system seen from the road must be roof integrated. It's important we keep the face of our skyline looking lovely. We fully support the Planning department's endeavours to keep Guernsey beautiful. Ask your local planning officer for guidelines in your area if you do not reside in Guernsey.