The planning process
Within Wales, there are various consenting regimes in place for energy schemes. Smaller energy projects are typically decided by local planning authorities whilst larger infrastructure projects are currently considered through either the Development of National Significance (DNS) procedure; the Infrastructure Consent Order (ICO) procedure (which is gradually replacing the DNS procedure), or the Development Consent Order (DCO) procedure. The determining procedure is influenced by the size of the project when applications are submitted for determination.
As Candwr Solar Farm has an anticipated solar generation capacity of approximately 46MW, it will be considered through the DNS system.
The DNS process ensures local residents have more say on the project, as there is a minimum requirement at the pre-application stage for publicising and consultation for a minimum of six weeks.
After holding public consultations and refining the proposals, anyone intending to construct a DNS infrastructure project must submit an application directly to the Welsh Government: Planning and Environment Decisions Wales (PEDW).
PEDW manage the DNS application process and they will appoint one or more Planning Inspectors to examine the application. For DNS schemes over 50MW, the Welsh Minister will make the final decision based on a report from the Planning Inspector. For applications between 10MW and 50MW, the Planning Inspector will make the final decision.
Further details on this process may be found on the DNS website using the link below.
A Development of National Significance (DNS) refers to infrastructure projects that are considered to be of national significance. These projects require a special planning and approval process to be granted approval under the Planning (Wales) Act 2015 which amends the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (“the Act”), and the Developments of National Significance (Wales) Regulations 2016 (as amended) and subsequent Regulations.
Energy generating projects in Wales that have a generating capacity of between 10 MW and 350 MW are DNS’s and are required to obtain approval via the DNS system.
After holding consultations and refining the proposals, anyone intending to construct a DNS must submit an application to Planning and Environment Decisions Wales (PEDW).
PEDW will then publicise and consult on the application over a five-week representation period. Following this, an Inspector will be appointed to examine the application. The Inspector must deliver their report to the Welsh Ministers within 24 weeks.
For DNS schemes over 50MW, the Planning Inspectors report will be issued to the Welsh Minister, who ultimately make the decision. For applications between 10MW and 50MW, the Planning Inspector will make the final decision.
As Candwr Solar Farm has an anticipated solar generation capacity of approximately 46MW, it will be considered through the DNS system. A formal notification of intention to submit a DNS application was provided to Planning and Environment Decisions Wales (PEDW) before 15 December 2025, which is the date when the new Infrastructure (Wales) Act regime came into effect. This ensures the project remains under the current DNS consenting process during the transitional period, providing a clear route for determination.
A key requirement of the DNS process is for applicants to consult with stakeholders and the community prior to submitting an application. Furthermore, PEDW will also publicise and consult on the application over a five-week representation period. In our DNS application, we are required to summarise the feedback received and our responses to the feedback.
Community liaison group
We will work with the local Community Councils to establish a Community Liaison Group with the aim to ensure open dialogue between the community and the project team, addressing concerns and ensuring transparent communication.
This will be established as the project develops.