17.This section sets out which abstractions are exempt from the requirement for Ministerial approval. The following abstractions are exempt:
abstractions already authorised under the Controlled Activities Regulations on the day on which section 7(1) comes into force;
abstractions by Scottish Water for the purpose of the exercise of its core functions (see section 70(2) of the 2002 Act, as amended by section 26 of this Act) in relation to premises in Scotland; and
abstractions for the purposes of generating electricity by hydro-power, irrigating agricultural or horticultural land, operating a fish farm or maintaining a quarry or a mine.
18.Ministers may by regulations modify an exemption, or provide for an exemption in other circumstances.