Electricity Act 1989 (c. 29)

Part I U.K. ELECTRICITY SUPPLY

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C1 Pt. I modified (5.10.2004) by Energy Act 2004 (c. 20), ss. 184(12), 185(13), 198(2); S.I. 2004/2575, art. 2(1), Sch. 1

C2 Pt. I modified (S.) (30.11.2005) by The Electricity from Non-Fossil Fuel Sources (Scotland) Saving Arrangements Order 2005 (S.S.I. 2005/549), arts. 1(1), 9

C3 Pt. I (ss. 1-64) applied (1.10.2001) by S.I. 2001/3264, regs. 4(2), 5(2)

C4 Pt. I (ss. 1-64) amended (E.W.) (27.10.2000) by S.I. 2000/2727, art. 10

Pt. I (ss. 1-64) amended (7.11.2000) by 2000 c. 27, s. 105(1)(a); S.I. 2000/2974, art. 2, Sch. (subject to transitional provisions in arts. 3-12)

Pt. I (ss. 1-64) amended (E.W.) (1.10.2001) by S.I. 2000/2727, art. 10 (as substituted (1.10.2001) by S.I. 2001/3268, art. 2(13))

Protection of public interest E+W+S

[F1 32 The renewables obligation E+W+S

(1) The relevant minister may make a renewables obligation order.

(2) “The relevant minister” means—

(a) in the case of Scotland, the Scottish Ministers,

(b) in any other case, the Secretary of State.

(3) In subsection (2) “Scotland” includes—

(a) so much of the internal waters and territorial sea of the United Kingdom as are adjacent to Scotland, and

(b) a Renewable Energy Zone, or any part of such a Zone, which is designated by order under section 84(5) of the Energy Act 2004 (areas in relation to which Scottish Ministers have functions).

(4) A renewables obligation order is an order which imposes the renewables obligation on each electricity supplier falling within a specified description (a “designated electricity supplier”).

(5) The descriptions of electricity supplier upon which a renewables obligation order may impose the renewables obligation are those supplying electricity to customers in the relevant part of Great Britain, excluding such categories of supplier (if any) as are specified.

(6) The renewables obligation is that the designated electricity supplier must, by each specified day, have produced to the Authority the required number of renewables obligation certificates in respect of the amount of electricity supplied by it during a specified period to customers in the relevant part of Great Britain.

(7) Subsection (6) is subject to sections 32A to 32M.

Textual Amendments

F1 Ss. 32-32M substituted for (26.11.2008 for specified purposes, 1.4.2009 in so far as not already in force) by Energy Act 2008 (c. 32), ss. 37, 110(1)(a) (with s. 38); S.I. 2009/45, art. 3(a) (with art. 5)

32A Further provision about the renewables obligation E+W+S

(1) A renewables obligation order may make provision generally in relation to the renewables obligation.

(2) A renewables obligation order may, in particular, specify—

(a) how the number of renewables obligation certificates required to be produced by an electricity supplier in respect of the amount of electricity supplied by it to customers in the relevant part of Great Britain during a specified period is to be calculated;

(b) different obligations for successive periods of time;

(c) that renewables obligation certificates issued in respect of electricity generated—

(i) using specified descriptions of renewable sources,

(ii) by specified descriptions of generating stations,

(iii) in specified ways, or

(iv) in other specified cases or circumstances,

are to count towards discharging an electricity supplier's obligation only up to a specified number, or a specified proportion, of the certificates required to be produced to discharge the obligation;

(d) that a specified number, or a specified proportion, of the renewables obligation certificates produced by an electricity supplier when discharging its renewables obligation must be certificates in respect of electricity generated—

(i) using specified descriptions of renewable sources,

(ii) by specified descriptions of generating station,

(iii) in specified ways, or

(iv) in other specified cases or circumstances;

(e) how the amount of electricity supplied by an electricity supplier to customers in the relevant part of Great Britain during a specified period is to be calculated;

(f) that specified information, or information of a specified nature, is to be given to the Authority;

(g) the form in which such information is to be given and the time by which it is to be given.

(3) A renewables obligation certificate may count once only towards the discharge of the renewables obligation.

(4) Except as provided by a renewables obligation order, a renewables obligation certificate counts towards discharging the renewables obligation regardless of whether the order under which it is issued is made by the Secretary of State or the Scottish Ministers.

(5) A renewables obligation order may specify that the only renewables obligation certificates which count towards discharging the renewables obligation are certificates which are issued—

(a) in respect of electricity supplied to customers in the relevant part of Great Britain, or

(b) in respect of electricity used in a permitted way (within the meaning of section 32B(9) and (10)) in that part of Great Britain.

(6) A renewables obligation order may, in relation to any specified period (“the current period”)—

(a) provide that renewables obligation certificates in respect of electricity supplied in a later period may, when available, be counted towards discharging the renewables obligation for the current period;

(b) provide that renewables obligation certificates in respect of electricity supplied in the current period may, in a later period, be counted towards discharging the renewables obligation for that period;

(c) specify how much later the later period referred to in paragraph (a) or (b) may be;

(d) specify a maximum proportion of the renewables obligation for any period which may be discharged as mentioned in paragraph (a) or (b);

(e) specify a maximum proportion, or maximum number of, the renewables obligation certificates issued in respect of electricity supplied in any period which may be counted towards discharging the renewables obligation for a different period.

(7) For the purposes of subsection (6) a certificate which certifies that electricity has been used in a permitted way (within the meaning of section 32B(9) and (10)) in a particular period is to be treated as if it were a certificate which certifies that electricity has been supplied in that period.

Textual Amendments

F1 Ss. 32-32M substituted for (26.11.2008 for specified purposes, 1.4.2009 in so far as not already in force) by Energy Act 2008 (c. 32), ss. 37, 110(1)(a) (with s. 38); S.I. 2009/45, art. 3(a) (with art. 5)

32B Renewables obligation certificates E+W+S

(1) A renewables obligation order may provide for the Authority to issue from time to time, in accordance with such criteria (if any) as are specified in the order, a certificate (“a renewables obligation certificate”) to—

(a) the operator of a generating station,

(b) an electricity supplier or a Northern Ireland supplier, or

(c) if the order so provides, a person of any other description specified in the order.

(2) A renewables obligation certificate is to certify—

(a) the matters within subsection (3) or (4), or

(b) if the order provides that a certificate may certify the matters within subsection (5), (6), (7) or (8), the matters within that subsection.

(3) The matters within this subsection are—

(a) that the generating station, or, in the case of a certificate issued otherwise than to the operator of a generating station, a generating station specified in the certificate, has generated from renewable sources the amount of electricity stated in the certificate, and

(b) that it has been supplied by an electricity supplier to customers in Great Britain (or the part of Great Britain stated in the certificate).

(4) The matters within this subsection are—

(a) that the generating station, or, in the case of a certificate issued otherwise than to the operator of a generating station, a generating station specified in the certificate, has generated from renewable sources the amount of electricity stated in the certificate,

(b) that the generating station in question is not a generating station mentioned in Article 54(1) of the Energy (Northern Ireland) Order 2003, and

(c) that the electricity has been supplied by a Northern Ireland supplier to customers in Northern Ireland.

(5) The matters within this subsection are—

(a) that two or more generating stations have, between them, generated from renewable sources the amount of electricity stated in the certificate, and

(b) that it has been supplied by an electricity supplier to customers in Great Britain (or the part of Great Britain stated in the certificate).

(6) The matters within this subsection are—

(a) that two or more generating stations have, between them, generated from renewable sources the amount of electricity stated in the certificate,

(b) that none of them is a generating station mentioned in Article 54(1) of the Energy (Northern Ireland) Order 2003, and

(c) that the electricity has been supplied by a Northern Ireland supplier to customers in Northern Ireland.

(7) The matters within this subsection are—

(a) that the generating station, or, in the case of a certificate issued otherwise than to the operator of a generating station, a generating station specified in the certificate, has generated from renewable sources the amount of electricity stated in the certificate, and

(b) that the electricity has been used in a permitted way.

(8) The matters within this subsection are—

(a) that two or more generating stations have, between them, generated from renewable sources the amount of electricity stated in the certificate, and

(b) that the electricity has been used in a permitted way.

(9) For the purposes of subsections (7) and (8), electricity generated by a generating station, or generating stations, of any description is used in a permitted way if—

(a) it is used in one of the ways mentioned in subsection (10), and

(b) that way is specified in the order as a permitted way—

(i) in relation to all generating stations, or

(ii) in relation to generating stations of that description.

(10) Those ways are—

(a) being consumed by the operator of the generating station or generating stations by which it was generated;

(b) being supplied to customers in Great Britain through a private wire network;

(c) being provided to a distribution system or a transmission system in circumstances in which its supply to customers cannot be demonstrated;

(d) being used, as respects part, as mentioned in one of paragraph (a), (b) or (c) and as respects the remainder—

(i) as mentioned in one of the other paragraphs, or

(ii) as respects part, as mentioned in one of the other paragraphs and as respects the remainder as mentioned in the other;

(e) being used, as respects part, as mentioned in paragraph (a), (b), (c) or (d) and as respects the remainder by being supplied by an electricity supplier to customers in Great Britain or by a Northern Ireland supplier to customers in Northern Ireland, or both.

(11) For the purposes of subsection (10)(b) electricity is supplied through a private wire network if it is conveyed to premises by a system which is used for conveying electricity from a generating station in circumstances where—

(a) the operator of the generating station is exempt from section 4(1)(c) and does not hold a supply licence, and

(b) the electricity is supplied to one or more customers—

(i) by the operator directly, or

(ii) by a person to whom the operator supplies the electricity, being a person who is exempt from section 4(1)(c) and does not hold a supply licence.

(12) In this section “generating station”—

(a) in the case of an order made by the Scottish Ministers, means a generating station which is situated in Scotland;

(b) in the case of an order made by the Secretary of State, means a generating station which is not situated in Scotland.

(13) For this purpose “Scotland” is to be construed in accordance with section 32(3).

Textual Amendments

F1 Ss. 32-32M substituted for (26.11.2008 for specified purposes, 1.4.2009 in so far as not already in force) by Energy Act 2008 (c. 32), ss. 37, 110(1)(a) (with s. 38); S.I. 2009/45, art. 3(a) (with art. 5)

32C Section 32B: supplemental provision E+W+S

(1) A renewables obligation order may provide—

(a) that no renewables obligation certificates are to be issued in respect of electricity generated in specified cases or circumstances, or

(b) that renewables obligation certificates are to be issued in respect of a proportion only of the electricity generated in specified cases or circumstances.

(2) In particular, provision made by virtue of subsection (1) may specify—

(a) electricity generated using specified descriptions of renewable sources,

(b) electricity generated by specified descriptions of generating station, or

(c) electricity generated in specified ways.

(3) Provision made by virtue of subsection (1)(b) may include—

(a) provision about how the proportion is to be determined;

(b) provision about what, subject to such exceptions as may be specified, constitutes sufficient evidence of any matter required to be established for the purpose of determining that proportion;

(c) provision authorising the Authority, in specified circumstances, to require an operator of a generating station to arrange—

(i) for samples of any fuel used (or to be used) in the generating station, or of any gas or other substance produced as a result of the use of such fuel, to be taken by a person, and analysed in a manner, approved by the Authority, and

(ii) for the results of that analysis to be made available to the Authority.

(4) In the case of electricity generated by a generating station fuelled or driven—

(a) partly by renewable sources, and

(b) partly by fossil fuel (other than waste which constitutes a renewable source),

only the proportion attributable to the renewable sources is to be regarded as generated from such sources.

(5) A renewables obligation order may specify—

(a) how the proportion referred to in subsection (4) is to be determined, and

(b) the consequences for the issuing of renewables obligation certificates if a generating station of the type mentioned in that subsection uses more than a specified proportion of fossil fuel during a specified period.

(6) Those consequences may include the consequence that no certificates are to be issued in respect of any of the electricity generated by that generating station during that period.

(7) A renewables obligation order may specify circumstances in which the Authority may revoke a renewables obligation certificate before its production for the purposes of the renewables obligation.

(8) A renewables obligation order must—

(a) prohibit the issue of a renewables obligation certificate certifying matters within section 32B(4) or (6) where the Northern Ireland authority has notified the Authority that it is not satisfied that the electricity in question has been supplied to customers in Northern Ireland, and

(b) require the revocation of such a certificate if the Northern Ireland authority so notifies the Authority at a time between the issue of the certificate and its production for the purposes of the renewables obligation.

(9) References in section 32B and this section to the supply of electricity to customers in Northern Ireland are to be construed in accordance with the definition of “supply” in Article 3 of the Electricity (Northern Ireland) Order 1992.

Textual Amendments

F1 Ss. 32-32M substituted for (26.11.2008 for specified purposes, 1.4.2009 in so far as not already in force) by Energy Act 2008 (c. 32), ss. 37, 110(1)(a) (with s. 38); S.I. 2009/45, art. 3(a) (with art. 5)

32D Amounts of electricity specified in certificates E+W+S

(1) A renewables obligation order may specify the amount of electricity to be stated in each renewables obligation certificate, and different amounts may be specified in relation to different cases or circumstances.

(2) In particular, different amounts may be specified in relation to—

(a) electricity generated from different renewable sources;

(b) electricity generated by different descriptions of generating station;

(c) electricity generated in different ways.

(3) In this section “banding provision” means provision made in a renewables obligation order by virtue of subsection (1).

(4) Before making any banding provision, the relevant minister must have regard to the following matters—

(a) the costs (including capital costs) associated with generating electricity from each of the renewable sources or with transmitting or distributing electricity so generated;

(b) the income of operators of generating stations in respect of electricity generated from each of those sources or associated with the generation of such electricity;

(c) the effect of paragraph 19 of Schedule 6 to the Finance Act 2000 (c. 17) (supplies of electricity from renewable sources exempted from climate change levy) in relation to electricity generated from each of those sources;

(d) the desirability of securing the long term growth, and economic viability, of the industries associated with the generation of electricity from renewable sources;

(e) the likely effect of the proposed banding provision on the number of renewables obligation certificates issued by the Authority, and the impact this will have on the market for such certificates and on consumers;

(f) the potential contribution of electricity generated from each renewable source to the attainment of any target which relates to the generation of electricity or the production of energy and is imposed by, or results from or arises out of, a Community obligation.

(5) For the purposes of subsection (4)(a), the costs associated with generating electricity from a renewable source include any costs associated with the production or supply of heat produced in connection with that generation.

(6) For the purposes of subsection (4)(b), an operator's income associated with the generation of electricity from a renewable source includes any income connected with—

(a) the acquisition of the renewable source;

(b) the supply of heat produced in connection with the generation;

(c) the disposal of any by-product of the generation process.

(7) After the first order containing banding provision is made by the relevant minister, no subsequent order containing such provision may be made by that minister except following a review held by virtue of subsection (8).

(8) A renewables obligation order—

(a) may authorise the relevant minister to review the banding provision at such intervals as are specified in or determined in accordance with the order, and

(b) may authorise the relevant minister to review the whole or any part of the banding provision at any time when that minister is satisfied that one or more of the specified conditions is satisfied.

Textual Amendments

F1 Ss. 32-32M substituted for (26.11.2008 for specified purposes, 1.4.2009 in so far as not already in force) by Energy Act 2008 (c. 32), ss. 37, 110(1)(a) (with s. 38); S.I. 2009/45, art. 3(a) (with art. 5)

32E Section 32D: transitional provision and savings E+W+S

(1) This section applies where a renewables obligation order contains banding provision.

(2) The order may provide for the effect of any banding provision made in an earlier order, or of any provision of a pre-commencement order, to continue, in such circumstances as may be specified, in relation to—

(a) the electricity generated by generating stations of such a description as may be specified, or

(b) so much of that electricity as may be determined in accordance with the order.

(3) For the purposes of subsection (2) “pre-commencement order” means an order made under section 32 before the coming into force of this section.

(4) Subsection (6) applies to a generating station in respect of which a statutory grant has been awarded if—

(a) the generating station is of a specified description, or

(b) the circumstances of the case meet specified requirements.

(5) The requirements specified under subsection (4)(b) may relate to the time when the grant was awarded (whether a time before or after the coming into force of this section).

(6) A renewables obligation order which contains banding provision may provide for the operation of that provision in relation to electricity generated by a generating station to which this subsection applies to be conditional upon the operator of the station agreeing—

(a) if the grant or any part of it has been paid, to repay to the Secretary of State the whole or a specified part of the grant or part before the repayment date,

(b) to pay to the Secretary of State interest on an amount repayable under paragraph (a) for such period, and at such rate, as may be determined by the Secretary of State, and

(c) if the grant or any part of it has not yet been paid, to consent to the cancellation of the award of the grant or part.

(7) If the grant in respect of which an amount falls to be paid under paragraph (a) or (b) of subsection (6) was paid by the Scottish Ministers, the references in those paragraphs to the Secretary of State are to be read as references to those Ministers.

(8) For the purposes of subsection (6)—

(a) “the repayment date” means the date specified in or determined in accordance with the order, and

(b) the period for which interest is payable must not begin before the grant was paid or, if the repayment relates to an instalment of the grant, before the instalment was paid;

and, for the purposes of provision made under that subsection, a renewables obligation order may make provision about the cancellation of an award of a statutory grant or an instalment of such a grant.

(9) In this section “statutory grant” means—

(a) a grant awarded under section 5(1) of the Science and Technology Act 1965 (grants to carry on or support scientific research), or

(b) any other grant which is payable out of public funds and awarded under or by virtue of an Act.

(10) This section is without prejudice to section 32K(1)(b) (power for renewables obligation order to include transitional provision and savings).

Textual Amendments

F1 Ss. 32-32M substituted for (26.11.2008 for specified purposes, 1.4.2009 in so far as not already in force) by Energy Act 2008 (c. 32), ss. 37, 110(1)(a) (with s. 38); S.I. 2009/45, art. 3(a) (with art. 5)

32F Use of renewables obligation certificates issued in Northern Ireland E+W+S

(1) A renewables obligation order may provide that—

(a) in such cases as may be specified in the order, and

(b) subject to such conditions as may be so specified,

an electricity supplier may (to the extent provided for in accordance with the order) discharge its renewables obligation (or its obligation in relation to a particular period) by the production to the Authority of a Northern Ireland certificate.

(2) In this section “Northern Ireland certificate” means a certificate issued by the Northern Ireland authority in accordance with provision included, by virtue of [F2 Articles 54 to 54D] of the Energy (Northern Ireland) Order 2003, in an order under Article 52 of that Order (renewables obligations for Northern Ireland suppliers).

Textual Amendments

F1 Ss. 32-32M substituted for (26.11.2008 for specified purposes, 1.4.2009 in so far as not already in force) by Energy Act 2008 (c. 32), ss. 37, 110(1)(a) (with s. 38); S.I. 2009/45, art. 3(a) (with art. 5)

F2 Words in s. 32F(2) substituted (1.4.2009) by The Energy Act 2008 (Consequential Amendments) Order 2009 (S.I. 2009/556), arts. 1, 2(2)

32G Payment as alternative to complying with renewables obligation order E+W+S

(1) A renewables obligation order may provide—

(a) that an electricity supplier may (in whole or in part) discharge its renewables obligation by making a payment to the Authority before the last discharge day, and

(b) that an electricity supplier's renewables obligation that was not discharged in whole or in part before the last discharge day is to be treated as having been discharged to the extent specified in the order where the payment for which the order provides is made to the Authority before the end of the late payment period.

(2) The order may make provision—

(a) as to the sum which for the purposes of subsection (1) is to correspond to a renewables obligation certificate,

(b) for the sums that must be paid in order for an obligation to be treated as having been discharged to increase at a rate specified in the order for each day after the last discharge day;

(c) for different sums or rates falling within paragraph (a) or (b) in relation to different periods;

(d) for different such sums or rates in relation to electricity generated in different cases or circumstances specified in the order (including those of a kind referred to in section 32A(2)(c));

(e) for any such sum or rate to be adjusted from time to time for inflation by a method specified in the order.

(3) The method specified under subsection (2)(e) may, in particular, refer to a specified scale or index (as it may have effect from time to time) or to other specified data of any description.

(4) A renewables obligation order may provide that, where—

(a) a renewables obligation is one in relation to which provision made by virtue of subsection (1)(b) applies in the case of the electricity supplier who is subject to the obligation, and

(b) the period ending with such day (after the last discharge day) as may be specified in or determined under the order has not expired,

the taking of steps under section 27A in respect of a contravention by that supplier of that obligation is prohibited or otherwise restricted to the extent specified in the order.

(5) A renewables obligation order may provide that, in a case in which the amount received by the Authority, or by the Northern Ireland authority, by way of discharge payments for a period falls short of the amount due in respect of that period, every person who—

(a) was subject to a renewables obligation for the relevant period or for a subsequent period specified in or determined under the order, and

(b) is of a description so specified or determined,

must by the time and in the circumstances so specified or determined make a payment (or further payment) to the Authority of an amount calculated in the manner so specified or determined.

(6) A renewables obligation order may not by virtue of subsection (5) confer an entitlement on the Authority to receive a payment in respect of the shortfall for any period—

(a) in the case of a shortfall in the amount received by the Authority, if the receipt of the payment is to be while a prohibition or restriction by virtue of subsection (4) applies, in one or more cases, to the taking of steps in relation to contraventions of renewables obligations for that period, or

(b) in the case of a shortfall in the amount received by the Northern Ireland authority, if the receipt of the payment is to be while a prohibition or restriction by virtue of a corresponding provision having effect in Northern Ireland applies, in one or more cases, to the taking of steps in relation to contraventions of Northern Ireland obligations for that period.

(7) The provision that may be made by virtue of subsection (5) includes—

(a) provision for the making of adjustments and repayments at times after a requirement to make payments in respect of a shortfall for a period has already arisen, and

(b) provision that sections 25 to 28 are to apply in relation to a requirement imposed by virtue of that subsection on a person who is not a licence holder as if the person were a licence holder.

(8) References in this section to an electricity supplier's renewables obligation include references to its renewables obligation in relation to a particular period.

(9) For the purposes of this section, the amount received by the Authority by way of discharge payments for a period falls short of the amount due in respect of that period if, and to the extent that, the Authority would have received more by way of discharge payments if every renewables obligation for that period, so far as it was not otherwise discharged, had been discharged by payment.

(10) For the purposes of this section the amount received by the Northern Ireland authority by way of discharge payments for a period falls short of the amount due in respect of that period if, and to the extent that, that authority would have received more by way of discharge payments if every Northern Ireland obligation for that period, so far as not otherwise discharged, had been discharged by payment.

(11) In this section—

• “discharge payment”, in relation to a period, means—

  (a)

  a payment by virtue of subsection (1)(a) for discharging (in whole or in part) an electricity supplier's renewables obligation for that period,

  (b)

  so much of a payment by virtue of subsection (1)(b) for securing that such an obligation is treated as discharged to any extent as does not exceed the payment that would have discharged that obligation to the same extent if it had been made before the last discharge day, or

  (c)

  so much of any payment to the Northern Ireland authority as corresponds in relation to a Northern Ireland obligation for that period, to anything falling within paragraph (a) or (b) above;

• “last discharge day” means the day specified as the day by which renewables obligation certificates must be produced for the purposes of section 32(6);

• “late payment period” means such period beginning with the last discharge day as may be specified;

• “Northern Ireland obligation” means a renewables obligation of a Northern Ireland supplier under Article 52 of the Energy (Northern Ireland) Order 2003;

• “the relevant period”—

  (a)

  in relation to a shortfall in amounts received by the Authority by way of discharge payments for a period, means that period, and

  (b)

  in relation to a shortfall in amounts received by the Northern Ireland authority by way of discharge payments for a period, means any period that includes the whole or a part of that period.

Textual Amendments

F1 Ss. 32-32M substituted for (26.11.2008 for specified purposes, 1.4.2009 in so far as not already in force) by Energy Act 2008 (c. 32), ss. 37, 110(1)(a) (with s. 38); S.I. 2009/45, art. 3(a) (with art. 5)

32H Allocation of amounts to electricity suppliers E+W+S

(1) The amounts received by the Authority by virtue of section 32G must be paid by it to electricity suppliers in accordance with a system of allocation specified in a renewables obligation order.

(2) Subsection (1) does not apply to those amounts to the extent that they are used by the Authority under section 32I.

(3) The system of allocation specified in the order may provide for payments to specified categories of electricity supplier only.

(4) That system may also provide for the postponement of a requirement to make payments to electricity suppliers of amounts received by the Authority under section 32G(1)(b) if, at the time the payments would otherwise fall to be made, the aggregate of the amounts so received (and not used under section 32I or already paid under subsection (1)) is less than an amount specified in the order.

(5) The references in this section to electricity suppliers include references to Northern Ireland suppliers.

Textual Amendments

F1 Ss. 32-32M substituted for (26.11.2008 for specified purposes, 1.4.2009 in so far as not already in force) by Energy Act 2008 (c. 32), ss. 37, 110(1)(a) (with s. 38); S.I. 2009/45, art. 3(a) (with art. 5)

32I Costs of the Authority and the Northern Ireland authority E+W+S

(1) A renewables obligation order may provide for amounts received by the Authority by virtue of section 32G to be used by the Authority—

(a) to make payments into the Consolidated Fund in respect of costs (or a proportion of costs) which have been or are expected to be incurred by the Authority in connection with the performance of its functions conferred by or under sections 32 to 32M, or

(b) to make payments to the Northern Ireland authority in respect of costs (or a proportion of costs) which have been or are expected to be incurred by that authority in connection with the performance of its functions conferred by or under Articles 52 to [F3 55F] of the Energy (Northern Ireland) Order 2003.

(2) A renewables obligation order—

(a) may exclude amounts of a specified description from being used as mentioned in subsection (1);

(b) may prevent the Authority using amounts to make payments in respect of costs of a specified description.

Textual Amendments

F1 Ss. 32-32M substituted for (26.11.2008 for specified purposes, 1.4.2009 in so far as not already in force) by Energy Act 2008 (c. 32), ss. 37, 110(1)(a) (with s. 38); S.I. 2009/45, art. 3(a) (with art. 5)

F3 Word in s. 32I(1)(b) substituted (1.4.2009) by The Energy Act 2008 (Consequential Amendments) Order 2009 (S.I. 2009/556), arts. 1, 2(3)

32J Information E+W+S

(1) A renewables obligation order may provide for the Authority to require—

(a) an electricity supplier to provide the Authority with information, or with information of a particular kind, which in the Authority's opinion is relevant to the question whether the supplier is discharging, or has discharged, its renewables obligation;

(b) a person to provide the Authority with information, or with information of a particular kind, which in the Authority's opinion is relevant to the question whether a renewables obligation certificate is, or was or will in future be, required to be issued to the person.

(2) That information must be given to the Authority in whatever form it requires.

(3) A renewables obligation order may—

(a) require operators of generating stations generating electricity (wholly or partly) from biomass to give specified information, or information of a specified kind, to the Authority;

(b) specify what, for this purpose, constitutes “biomass”;

(c) require the information to be given in a specified form and within a specified period;

(d) authorise or require the Authority to postpone the issue of certificates under section 32B to the operator of a generating station who fails to comply with a requirement imposed by virtue of paragraph (a) or (c) until such time as the failure is remedied;

(e) authorise or require the Authority to refuse to issue certificates to such a person or to refuse to issue them unless the failure is remedied within a prescribed period.

(4) The Authority may publish information obtained by virtue of subsection (3).

(5) No person is required by virtue of this section to provide any information which the person could not be compelled to give in evidence in civil proceedings in the High Court or, in Scotland, the Court of Session.

Textual Amendments

F1 Ss. 32-32M substituted for (26.11.2008 for specified purposes, 1.4.2009 in so far as not already in force) by Energy Act 2008 (c. 32), ss. 37, 110(1)(a) (with s. 38); S.I. 2009/45, art. 3(a) (with art. 5)

32K Renewables obligation order: general provision E+W+S

(1) A renewables obligation order may—

(a) make further provision as to the functions of the Authority in relation to the matters dealt with by the order;

(b) make transitional provision and savings;

(c) provide for anything falling to be calculated or otherwise determined under the order to be calculated or determined by such persons, in accordance with such procedure and by reference to such matters and to the opinion of such persons, as may be specified in the order;

(d) make different provision for different cases or circumstances.

(2) Provision made by virtue of subsection (1)(b) may, in particular, include provision about the treatment of certificates issued under section 32B before the substitution of that section by section 37 of the Energy Act 2008 [F4 or certificates referred to in section 38(2)(b) of the Energy Act 2008 (Northern Ireland certificates issued under the Energy (Northern Ireland) Order 2003 before 1st April 2009)].

(3) Provision made by virtue of subsection (1)(d) may, in particular, make—

(a) different provision in relation to different suppliers;

(b) different provision in relation to generating stations of different descriptions;

(c) different provision in relation to different localities.

(4) In subsection (3) “supplier” means an electricity supplier or a Northern Ireland supplier.

Textual Amendments

F1 Ss. 32-32M substituted for (26.11.2008 for specified purposes, 1.4.2009 in so far as not already in force) by Energy Act 2008 (c. 32), ss. 37, 110(1)(a) (with s. 38); S.I. 2009/45, art. 3(a) (with art. 5)

F4 Words in s. 32K(2) inserted (1.4.2009) by The Energy Act 2008 (Consequential Amendments) Order 2009 (S.I. 2009/556), arts. 1, 2(4)

32L Renewables obligation orders: procedure E+W+S

(1) Before making a renewables obligation order, the relevant minister must consult—

(a) the Authority,

(b) the Council,

(c) the electricity suppliers to whom the proposed order would apply,

(d) such generators of electricity from renewable sources as the relevant minister considers appropriate, and

(e) such other persons, if any, as the relevant minister considers appropriate.

(2) A renewables obligation order is not to be made by the Secretary of State unless a draft of the instrument containing it has been laid before and approved by a resolution of each House of Parliament.

(3) A renewables obligation order is not to be made by the Scottish Ministers unless a draft of the instrument containing it has been laid before and approved by a resolution of the Scottish Parliament.

Textual Amendments

F1 Ss. 32-32M substituted for (26.11.2008 for specified purposes, 1.4.2009 in so far as not already in force) by Energy Act 2008 (c. 32), ss. 37, 110(1)(a) (with s. 38); S.I. 2009/45, art. 3(a) (with art. 5)

32M Interpretation of sections 32 to 32M E+W+S

(1) In this section and sections 32 to 32L—

• “banding provision” is to be construed in accordance with section 32D(3);

• “fossil fuel” means—

  (a)

  coal,

  (b)

  lignite,

  (c)

  natural gas (within the meaning of the Energy Act 1976),

  (d)

  crude liquid petroleum,

  (e)

  petroleum products (within the meaning of that Act), or

  (f)

  any substance produced directly or indirectly from a substance mentioned in paragraphs (a) to (e);

• “generated” means generated at any place whether situated in the United Kingdom or elsewhere, and cognate expressions are to be construed accordingly;

• “Northern Ireland authority” means the Northern Ireland Authority for Utility Regulation;

• “Northern Ireland supplier” means an electricity supplier within the meaning of Part 7 of the Energy (Northern Ireland) Order 2003;

• “the relevant minister” has the meaning given by section 32;

• “the relevant part of Great Britain” means—

  (a)

  in the case of a renewables obligation order made by the Secretary of State, England and Wales (including so much of the internal waters and territorial sea of the United Kingdom as are adjacent to England or Wales);

  (b)

  in the case of a renewables obligation order made by the Scottish Ministers, Scotland (including so much of the internal waters and territorial sea of the United Kingdom as are adjacent to Scotland);

• “the renewables obligation” is to be construed in accordance with section 32(4);

• “renewables obligation certificate” is to be construed in accordance with section 32B;

• “renewables obligation order” is to be construed in accordance with section 32;

• “renewable sources” means sources of energy other than fossil fuel or nuclear fuel, but includes waste of which not more than a specified proportion is waste which is, or is derived from, fossil fuel;

• “specified”, in relation to a renewables obligation order, means specified in the order.

(2) For the purposes of the definition of “renewable sources”, a renewables obligation order may make provision—

(a) about what constitutes “waste”;

(b) about how the proportion of waste which is, or is derived from, fossil fuel is to be determined;

(c) about what, subject to such exceptions as may be specified, constitutes sufficient evidence of that proportion in any particular case;

(d) authorising the Authority, in specified circumstances, to require an operator of a generating station to arrange—

(i) for samples of any fuel used (or to be used) in the generating station, or of any gas or other substance produced as a result of the use of such fuel, to be taken by a person, and analysed in a manner, approved by the Authority, and

(ii) for the results of that analysis to be made available to the Authority.

(3) For the purposes of the definition of “the relevant part of Great Britain”, the territorial sea adjacent to England is the territorial sea adjacent to the United Kingdom, other than the territorial sea adjacent to Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland.

(4) An Order in Council under section 126(2) of the Scotland Act 1998 (c. 46) (apportionment of sea areas) has effect for the purposes of this section and sections 32 to 32L if, or to the extent that, the Order is expressed to apply—

(a) by virtue of this subsection, for those purposes, or

(b) if no provision has been made by virtue of paragraph (a), for the general or residual purposes of that Act.

(5) An order or Order in Council made under or by virtue of section 158(3) or (4) of the Government of Wales Act 2006 (apportionment of sea areas) has effect for the purposes of this section if, or to the extent that, the order or Order in Council is expressed to apply—

(a) by virtue of this subsection, for those purposes, or

(b) if no provision has been made by virtue of paragraph (a), for the general or residual purposes of that Act.

(6) An Order in Council under section 98(8) of the Northern Ireland Act 1998 (c. 46) (apportionment of sea areas) has effect for the purposes of this section if, or to the extent that, the Order is expressed to apply—

(a) by virtue of this subsection, for those purposes, or

(b) if no provision has been made by virtue of paragraph (a), for the general or residual purposes of that Act.

(7) A renewables obligation order may make provision, for the purposes of sections 32 to 32L, about the circumstances in which electricity is to be regarded as having been supplied—

(a) to customers in Great Britain;

(b) to customers in the relevant part of Great Britain;

(c) to customers in Northern Ireland.]

Textual Amendments

F1 Ss. 32-32M substituted for (26.11.2008 for specified purposes, 1.4.2009 in so far as not already in force) by Energy Act 2008 (c. 32), ss. 37, 110(1)(a) (with s. 38); S.I. 2009/45, art. 3(a) (with art. 5)

F5 33 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E+W+S

Textual Amendments

F5 S. 33 ceased to have effect (21.11.2000) by virtue of 2000 c. 27, s. 66; S.I. 2000/2414, art. 2 (subject to saving in art. 3(2)) and s. 33 repealed (1.10.2001) by 2000 c. 27, s. 108, Sch. 8; S.I. 2001/3266, art. 2, Sch. (subject to transitional provisions in arts. 3-20)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C5 S. 33 saved (with modifications) (27.10.2000 with effect on 21.11.2000) by S.I. 2000/2727, art. 11; and, as so saved, further modified (E.W.) (1.10.2001) by S.I. 2001/3268, art. 3 and (S.) (1.10.2001) by S.I. 2001/3269, art. 9; and, as so saved, further modified (E.W.) (30.12.2001) by S.I. 2001/3914, art. 2; and, as so saved, further modified (S.) (31.3.2002) by S.S.I. 2002/92, art. 2(2)

C6 S. 33 applied (2.10.2001) by S.I. 1990/266, reg. 2(1) (as inserted (2.10.2001) by S.I. 2001/3286, reg. 3(4))

C7 S. 33 as saved modified (S.) (30.11.2005) by The Electricity from Non-Fossil Fuel Sources (Scotland) Saving Arrangements Order 2005 (S.S.I. 2005/549), arts. 1(1), 10

34 Fuel stocks etc. at generating stations. E+W+S

(1) This section applies to any generating station which—

(a) is of a capacity not less than 50 megawatts; and

(b) is fuelled otherwise than by waste or manufactured gases;

and in this subsection “waste” has the same meaning as in the M1 Control of Pollution Act 1974.

(2) The Secretary of State may by order provide that subsection (1) above shall have effect as if for the capacity mentioned in paragraph (a) there were substituted such other capacity (not exceeding 100 megawatts) as may be specified in the order.

(3) In respect of any generating station to which this section applies, the Secretary of State may give a direction requiring the person who operates it—

(a) to make such arrangements with respect to stocks of fuel and other materials held at or near that generating station for the purposes of its operation as will—

(i) enable those stocks to be brought within a specified time to, and thereafter maintained at, a specified level; and

(ii) ensure that they do not fall below that level, except as may be permitted by the terms of the direction or by a direction under subsection (4) below;

(b) to create such stocks and make such arrangements with respect to them;

and the amount of any stocks may be specified by reference to the period for which it would enable the generating station to be maintained in operation.

(4) In respect of any generating station to which this section applies, the Secretary of State may give a direction—

(a) authorising or requiring the person who operates it to make such use as may be specified of any stocks held at or near that generating station; and

(b) requiring that person to operate, or not to operate, that generating station for specified periods, at specified levels of capacity or using specified fuels.

(5) In subsections (3) and (4) above “specified” means specified by or under the Secretary of State’s direction; and a direction may—

(a) specify the cases and circumstances in which any stocks are to be treated as held at or near any generating station;

(b) specify the extent to which the direction may be treated as complied with where, under arrangements made or approved by the Secretary of State, access can be had to stocks held for the use of a number of consumers;

(c) specify the manner in which any period mentioned in subsection (3) or (4) above is to be determined;

(d) require anything falling to be specified under the direction to be specified by such persons and by reference to such matters as may be specified.

(6) A direction under subsection (3) or (4) above which confers on any person the function of specifying anything falling to be specified under the direction may require that person to exercise that function in such manner as may be specified by the direction.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C8 S. 34: transfer of certain functions (S.) (1.7.1999) by S.I. 1999/1750, arts. 1, 2, Sch. 1 (with art. 7)

C9 By S.I. 1990/1066, art. 2 it is provided that s. 34(1) shall have effect as if for the capacity of 50 megawatts mentioned in para. (a), there were substituted the capacity of 10 megawatts

Marginal Citations

M1 1974 c. 40.

35 Provisions supplementary to section 34. E+W+S

(1) The Secretary of State may give a direction requiring [F6 the holder of a transmission licence] to give to the Secretary of State, after consultation with specified persons, any information or advice which the Secretary of State may reasonably require for purposes connected with the exercise of his functions under section 34 above.

[F7 (2) The Secretary of State may give a direction requiring any person who is authorised by a licence to participate in the transmission of electricity to carry on the activities which the licence authorises (or any of them), at any time when a direction under section 34(4) above is in force, either in a specified manner or with a view to achieving specified objectives.]

(3) In subsections (1) and (2) above “specified” means specified by or under the Secretary of State’s direction; [F8 and a person subject to a direction under subsection (2) above shall give effect to it notwithstanding any other duty imposed on him by or under this Part.]

(4) The Secretary of State shall lay before each House of Parliament a copy of every direction given under section 34 above or this section unless he is of the opinion that disclosure of the direction is against the interests of national security or the commercial interests of any person.

(5) A person who, without reasonable excuse, contravenes or fails to comply with a direction of the Secretary of State under section 34 above or this section shall be liable—

(a) on summary conviction, to a fine not exceeding the statutory maximum;

(b) on conviction on indictment, to a fine.

(6) No proceedings shall be instituted in England and Wales in respect of an offence under this section except by or on behalf of the Secretary of State.

(7) Paragraphs 1 to 4, 7 and 8 of Schedule 2 to the M2 Energy Act 1976 (administration of Act and other matters) shall have effect as if—

(a) section 34 above were contained in that Act;

(b) the powers of paragraph 1 were exercisable for any purpose connected with securing compliance with a direction under that section;

(c) information obtained by virtue of that paragraph could lawfully be disclosed to any person by whom anything falls to be specified under such a direction; and

(d) the powers conferred by sub-paragraph (1)(c) of that paragraph included power to direct that information and forecasts be furnished to any such person.

Textual Amendments

F6 Words in s. 35(1) substituted (1.9.2004) by Energy Act 2004 (c. 20), s. 198(2), Sch. 19 para. 12(2); S.I. 2004/2184, art. 2(2), Sch. 2

F7 S. 35(2) substituted (1.9.2004) by Energy Act 2004 (c. 20), s. 198(2), Sch. 19 para. 12(3); S.I. 2004/2184, art. 2(2), Sch. 2

F8 Words in s. 35(3) substituted (1.9.2004) by Energy Act 2004 (c. 20), s. 198(2), Sch. 19 para. 12(4); S.I. 2004/2184, art. 2(2), Sch. 2

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C10 S. 35: transfer of certain functions (S.) (1.7.1999) by S.I. 1999/1750, arts. 1, 2, Sch. 1 (with art. 7)

Marginal Citations

M2 1976 c. 76.

36 Consent required for construction etc. of generating stations. E+W+S

(1) Subject to subsections (2) and (4) below, a generating station shall not be constructed [F9 at a relevant place (within the meaning of section 4), and a generating station at such a place shall not be], extended or operated except in accordance with a consent granted by the Secretary of State.

(2) Subsection (1) above shall not apply to a generating station whose capacity—

(a) does not exceed the permitted capacity, that is to say, 50 megawatts; and

(b) in the case of a generating station which is to be constructed or extended, will not exceed the permitted capacity when it is constructed or extended;

and an order under this subsection may make different provision for generating stations of different classes or descriptions.

(3) The Secretary of State may by order provide that subsection (2) above shall have effect as if for the permitted capacity mentioned in paragraph (a) there were substituted such other capacity as may be specified in the order.

(4) The Secretary of State may by order direct that subsection (1) above shall not apply to generating stations of a particular class or description, either generally or for such purposes as may be specified in the order.

(5) [F10 Subject to subsections (5A) and (5B),] A consent under this section—

(a) may include such conditions (including conditions as to the ownership or operation of the station) as appear to the Secretary of State to be appropriate; and

(b) shall continue in force for such period as may be specified in or determined by or under the consent.

[F11 (5A) In the case of a generating station in respect of which a controlled activity, within the meaning of the Water Environment (Controlled Activities) (Scotland) Regulations 2005, will be carried on, the Secretary of State shall, before granting a consent under subsection (1), obtain and have regard to the advice of the Scottish Environment Protection Agency on matters relating to the protection of the water environment and have regard to the purposes of Part 1 of the Water Environment and Water Services (Scotland) Act 2003.

(5B) In the event that the conditions of a consent granted under subsection (1) on matters relating to the protection of the water environment, and the conditions of an authorisation granted under the Water Environment (Controlled Activities) (Scotland) Regulations 2005 differ, and cannot reasonably be reconciled, the relevant conditions of that consent shall be treated as modified to the extent necessary to be consistent with the conditions of that authorisation.]

(6) Any person who without reasonable excuse contravenes the provisions of this section shall be liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding level 5 on the standard scale.

(7) No proceedings shall be instituted in England and Wales in respect of an offence under this section except by or on behalf of the Secretary of State.

(8) The provisions of Schedule 8 to this Act (which relate to consents under this section and section 37 below) shall have effect.

(9) In this Part “extension”, in relation to a generating station, includes the use by the person operating the station of any land [F12 or area of waters] (wherever situated) for a purpose directly related to the generation of electricity by that station and “extend” shall be construed accordingly.

Textual Amendments

F9 Words in s. 36(1) inserted (1.3.2005) by Energy Act 2004 (c. 20), s. 93(1)(4), 198(2); S.I. 2005/442, art. 2(1), Sch. 1

F10 Words in s. 36(5) inserted (S.) (1.4.2006) by The Water Environment and Water Services (Scotland) Act 2003 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2006 (S.I. 2006/1054), art. 1(1), Sch. 1 para. 1(2)(a)

F11 S. 36(5A)(5B) inserted (1.4.2006) by The Water Environment and Water Services (Scotland) Act 2003 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2006 (S.I. 2006/1054), art. 1(1), Sch. 1 para. 1(2)(b)

F12 Words in s. 36(9) inserted (1.3.2005) by Energy Act 2004 (c. 20), s. 93(3)(4), 198(2); S.I. 2005/442, art. 2(1), Sch. 1

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C11 S. 36 restricted by S.I. 1990/442, art. 3(1)(a)

C12 S. 36 modified (S.) (27.5.1997) by 1997 c. 8, ss. 57(2), 278(2) (with ss. 64, 219)

S. 36 modified (S.) (27.5.1997) by 1997 c. 10, ss. 10(2), 31, 40(2) (with ss. 9(3), 10(5), 38(6))

C13 S. 36: transfer of certain functions (S.) (1.7.1999) by S.I. 1999/1750, art. 2, Sch. 1 (with art. 7)

C14 S. 36 restricted (21.11.2003) by The Norfolk Offshore Wind Farm Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/2830), arts. 1, 16 (with art. 23)

C15 S. 36 excluded (16.4.2004) by The Gunfleet Sands Offshore Wind Farm Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/933), arts. 1, 16

C16 S. 36 excluded (19.11.2004) by The Scarweather Sands Offshore Wind Farm Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/3054), arts. 1, 26 (with art. 38)

C17 S. 36 functions modified (12.4.2006) by The Scotland Act 1998 (Transfer of Functions to the Scottish Ministers etc.) (No. 2) Order 2006 (S.I. 2006/1040), arts. 1(2), 2 (with art. 6)

C18 S. 36: transfer of functions (13.4.2006) by The Scotland Act 1998 (Transfer of Functions to the Scottish Ministers etc.) (No. 2) Order 2006 (S.I. 2006/1040), arts. 1(1), 3 (with art. 6)

C19 S. 36(2) modified (S.) by S.I. 1990/392, art. 2

C20 S. 36(2) modified (E.W.) (1.12.2001) by S.I. 2001/3642, art. 2

C21 S. 36(2) modified (S.) (26.9.2002) by The Electricity Act 1989 (Requirement of Consent for Offshore Generating Stations) (Scotland) Order 2002 (S.S.I. 2002/407), art. 3

[F13 36A Declarations extinguishing etc. public rights of navigation E+W+S

(1) Where a consent is granted by the Secretary of State or the Scottish Ministers in relation to—

(a) the construction or operation of a generating station that comprises or is to comprise (in whole or in part) renewable energy installations situated at places in relevant waters, or

(b) an extension of a generating station that is to comprise (in whole or in part) renewable energy installations situated at places in relevant waters or an extension of such an installation,

he or (as the case may be) they may, at the same time, make a declaration under this section as respects rights of navigation so far as they pass through some or all of those places.

(2) The Secretary of State or the Scottish Ministers may make such a declaration only if the applicant for the consent made an application for such a declaration when making his application for the consent.

(3) A declaration under this section is one declaring that the rights of navigation specified or described in it—

(a) are extinguished;

(b) are suspended for the period that is specified in the declaration;

(c) are suspended until such time as may be determined in accordance with provision contained in the declaration; or

(d) are to be exercisable subject to such restrictions or conditions, or both, as are set out in the declaration.

(4) A declaration under this section—

(a) has effect, in relation to the rights specified or described in it, from the time at which it comes into force; and

(b) continues in force for such period as may be specified in the declaration or as may be determined in accordance with provision contained in it.

(5) A declaration under this section—

(a) must identify the renewable energy installations, or proposed renewable energy installations, by reference to which it is made;

(b) must specify the date on which it is to come into force, or the means by which that date is to be determined;

(c) may modify or revoke a previous such declaration, or a declaration under section 100 of the Energy Act 2004; and

(d) may make different provision in relation to different means of exercising a right of navigation.

(6) Where a declaration is made under this section by the Secretary of State or the Scottish Ministers, or a determination is made by him or them for the purposes of a provision contained in such a declaration, he or (as the case may be) they must either—

(a) publish the declaration or determination in such manner as appears to him or them to be appropriate for bringing it, as soon as is reasonably practicable, to the attention of persons likely to be affected by it; or

(b) secure that it is published in that manner by the applicant for the declaration.

(7) In this section—

• “consent” means a consent under section 36 above;

• “extension”, in relation to a renewable energy installation, has the same meaning as in Chapter 2 of Part 2 of the Energy Act 2004;

• “relevant waters” means waters in or adjacent to Great Britain which are between the mean low water mark and the seaward limits of the territorial sea.

Textual Amendments

F13 Ss. 36A, 36B inserted (1.3.2005 for specified purposes, 1.9.2005 for specified purposes, 1.10.2005 in so far as not already in force) by Energy Act 2004 (c. 20), ss. 99(1), 198(2); S.I. 2005/442, art. 2(1)(3), Sch. 1, Sch. 3; S.I. 2005/877, art. 2(2), Sch. 2

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C22 Ss. 36A(4)-(6) applied (1.9.2005) by Energy Act 2004 (c. 20), ss. 100(5), 198(2); S.I. 2005/442, art. 2(3), Sch. 3

36B Duties in relation to navigation E+W+S

(1) Neither the Secretary of State nor the Scottish Ministers may grant a consent in relation to any particular offshore generating activities if he considers, or (as the case may be) they consider, that interference with the use of recognised sea lanes essential to international navigation—

(a) is likely to be caused by the carrying on of those activities; or

(b) is likely to result from their having been carried on.

(2) It shall be the duty both of the Secretary of State and of the Scottish Ministers, in determining—

(a) whether to give a consent for any particular offshore generating activities, and

(b) what conditions to include in such a consent,

to have regard to the extent and nature of any obstruction of or danger to navigation which (without amounting to interference with the use of such sea lanes) is likely to be caused by the carrying on of the activities, or is likely to result from their having been carried on.

(3) In determining for the purposes of this section what interference, obstruction or danger is likely and its extent and nature, the Secretary of State or (as the case may be) the Scottish Ministers must have regard to the likely overall effect (both while being carried on and subsequently) of—

(a) the activities in question; and

(b) such other offshore generating activities as are either already the subject of consents or are activities in respect of which it appears likely that consents will be granted.

(4) For the purposes of this section the effects of offshore generating activities include—

(a) how, in relation to those activities, the Secretary of State and the Scottish Ministers have exercised or will exercise their powers under section 36A above and section 100 of the Energy Act 2004 (extinguishment of public rights of navigation); and

(b) how, in relation to those activities, the Secretary of State has exercised or will exercise his powers under sections 95 and 96 and Chapter 3 of Part 2 of that Act (safety zones and decommissioning).

(5) If the person who has granted a consent in relation to any offshore generating activities thinks it appropriate to do so in the interests of the safety of navigation, he may at any time vary conditions of the consent so as to modify in relation to any of the following matters the obligations imposed by those conditions—

(a) the provision of aids to navigation (including, in particular, lights and signals);

(b) the stationing of guard ships in the vicinity of the place where the activities are being or are to be carried on; or

(c) the taking of other measures for the purposes of, or in connection with, the control of the movement of vessels in that vicinity.

(6) A modification in exercise of the power under subsection (5) must be set out in a notice given by the person who granted the consent to the person whose obligations are modified.

(7) In this section—

• “consent” means a consent under section 36 above;

• “offshore generating activities” means—

  (a)

  the construction or operation of a generating station that is to comprise or comprises (in whole or in part) renewable energy installations; or

  (b)

  an extension of a generating station that is to comprise (in whole or in part) renewable energy installations or an extension of such an installation;

• “the use of recognised sea lanes essential to international navigation” means—

  (a)

  anything that constitutes the use of such a sea lane for the purposes of Article 60(7) of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea 1982 (Cmnd 8941); or

  (b)

  any use of waters in the territorial sea adjacent to Great Britain that would fall within paragraph (a) if the waters were in a Renewable Energy Zone.

(8) In subsection (7) “extension”, in relation to a renewable energy installation, has the same meaning as in Chapter 2 of Part 2 of the Energy Act 2004.]

Textual Amendments

F13 Ss. 36A, 36B inserted (1.3.2005 for specified purposes, 1.9.2005 for specified purposes, 1.10.2005 in so far as not already in force) by Energy Act 2004 (c. 20), ss. 99(1), 198(2); S.I. 2005/442, art. 2(1)(3), Sch. 1, Sch. 3; S.I. 2005/877, art. 2(2), Sch. 2

37 Consent required for overhead lines. E+W+S

(1) Subject to subsection (2) below, an electric line shall not be installed or kept installed above ground except in accordance with a consent granted by the Secretary of State.

(2) Subsection (1) above shall not apply—

(a) in relation to an electric line which has a nominal voltage not exceeding 20 kilovolts and is used or intended to be used for supplying a single consumer;

(b) in relation to so much of an electric line as is or will be within premises in the occupation or control of the person responsible for its installation; or

(c) in such other cases as may be prescribed.

(3) A consent under this section—

(a) may include such conditions (including conditions as to the ownership and operation of the line) as appear to the Secretary of State to be appropriate;

(b) may be varied or revoked by the Secretary of State at any time after the end of such period as may be specified in the consent; and

(c) subject to paragraph (b) above, shall continue in force for such period as may be specified in or determined by or under the consent.

(4) Any person who without reasonable excuse contravenes the provisions of this section shall be liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding level 3 on the standard scale.

(5) No proceedings shall be instituted in England and Wales in respect of an offence under this section except by or on behalf of the Secretary of State.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C23 S. 37 restricted by S.I. 1990/442, art. 3(1)(b)

C24 S. 37 excluded (16.3.1992) by Midland Metro Act 1992 (c. vii), s. 10(3)

C25 S. 37 modified (S.) (27.5.1997) by 1997 c. 8, ss. 57(2), 278(2) (with ss. 64, 219)

C26 S. 37: transfer of certain functions (S.) (1.7.1999) by S.I. 1999/1750, art. 2, Sch. 1 (with art. 7)

C27 S. 37 excluded (19.11.2004) by The Scarweather Sands Offshore Wind Farm Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/3054), arts. 1, 26 (with art. 38)

C28 S. 37(1) excluded (1.1.1993) by S.I. 1992/3074, reg.3

C29 S. 37(1) excluded (18.12.1996) by 1996 c. 61, s. 50(1)

C30 S. 37(1) excluded (22.7.2008) by Crossrail Act 2008 (c. 18), s. 4(1)

C31 S. 37(1) excluded (E.W.) (6.4.2009) by The Overhead Lines (Exemption) (England and Wales) Regulations 2009 (S.I. 2009/640), regs. 1(3), 3-5

38 Preservation of amenity and fisheries. E+W+S

The provisions of Schedule 9 to this Act (which relate to the preservation of amenity and fisheries) shall have effect.