Change of Use of Storage Building to Renewable Energy Facility

Town Planning Services for the Conversion of an Existing Storage Building and Installation of a Biomass Boiler to Support On-Site Renewable Energy Generation

Client: Waste Management Company

Service Provided: Town Planning

Project Summary

Technia Environment and Planning Limited was appointed by a recycling and waste management company to support a planning application for the change of use of an existing storage building to enable the installation of a biomass boiler. The purpose of the development was to generate renewable heat using waste wood, helping to power the company’s existing operations and potentially supplying energy to other users on the surrounding industrial estate.

The project formed part of the company’s wider sustainability objectives, focusing on improving energy efficiency and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

Our Approach

We delivered a focused planning strategy to support sustainable energy generation within an existing industrial site. Our approach included:

• Operational Alignment: Worked with the client to ensure the biomass boiler met on-site energy needs without disrupting existing operations.
• Policy-Led Feasibility: Assessed planning policy and environmental constraints to shape a robust change-of-use proposal.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Liaised with the Local Planning Authority to address emissions and air quality early on.
• Application Management: Prepared supporting documents and managed the process through to approval.

Outcome

The project received full planning permission, allowing the client to move forward with the biomass boiler installation. The approved development supports the generation of low-carbon, renewable energy for on-site use and offers potential benefits for the wider industrial estate.

This project demonstrates how existing buildings can be adapted to support clean energy infrastructure, contributing to local and national climate objectives without the need for new-build development or expanded operations.

Looking to Power Your Site with Renewable Energy?

We help operators repurpose existing buildings and secure planning consent for low-carbon infrastructure, without expanding your site footprint.

Talk to us about planning support for biomass, clean energy or energy recovery projects.