Tenth International Conference on The Constructed Environment

Abstract

This paper reports on findings from an exploratory examination of planning decisions for solar energy developments in the Republic of Ireland. This involved a content analysis approach of planning assessment reports that was informed by the SPEED framework developed by Stephens, Wilson and Peterson (2008). The paper identifies the issues considered most important by local planning authorities and the national Irish planning appeals board in making their decisions. While some overlap is identified, it is also determined that a number of considerations are prioritised differently. Informed by this analysis, a number of recommendations are made on how to ensure a more coherent assessment approach to decision making.