The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment has adopted the "Solar Exclusion Norm" to facilitate energy production by removing red tape.
South Africa has introduced a new policy aimed at speeding up the expansion of solar energy. The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has adopted the Solar Exclusion Norm, which eliminates the need for certain solar photovoltaic (PV) projects to obtain environmental authorization.
This change applies to projects located in areas with low or medium environmental sensitivity. Previously, all solar PV installations required environmental approval, a process known for its complexity and delays.
The Solar Exclusion Norm sets out specific criteria for projects to qualify for the exemption, including size, location, and potential impact on sensitive ecosystems.
The South African government believes that by simplifying the approval process, more investment in solar energy will be attracted. This move is in line with the country's renewable energy objectives and aims to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
Key Points of the Solar Exclusion Norm:
It is important to emphasize that the Solar Exclusion Norm applies only to certain types of solar PV facilities. Projects in environmentally sensitive areas will still require environmental authorization.
The introduction of the Solar Exclusion Norm is seen as a positive development for South Africa's renewable energy sector. It is expected to streamline development processes and contribute to a cleaner, greener future.
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