The development ofdeep geothermal

Renewable Energy Planning Guidance Note 8

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Current Document Status

Version V2 Status Approved

Date 17/07/12 Approving body PPAP

Responsible Officer EIW Date approved 29/06/12

Version History

Date Version Author/Editor Comments

12/06/12 V1 Adrian Lea PPAP version

17/07/12 V2 Ellie Inglis-Woolcock Revisions

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The Development of Deep Geothermal Energy Installations in Cornwall

This guidance document has been prepared to assist all parties involved in the renewable energy development process. It is intended that the guidance document will be adopted by the Council as a “Supplementary Planning Document” following the adoption of the Council’s Core Strategy proposed after 2013. Until then the status of this document is that it has been

approved by Members of the Council’s Planning Policy Advisory Panel and while it will not attract the full weight of an SPD document will attract some weight in decisions reached on

planning applications.

Introduction

This draft guidance note aims to provide planning advice in respect of the development of deep geothermal energy installations in Cornwall.

The guidance contained within this document aims to assist anyone wishing to develop a deep geothermal energy installation to progress from their initial concepts and ideas, through to the submission of a planning application.

The Government has set targets to increase electricity and/or heat generation from renewable sources. Cornwall Council is keen to promote the generation of electricity and/or heat from renewable sources in Cornwall in order to contribute towards a more sustainable future.

This guidance note is part of a series of planning guidance notes for Renewable Energy prepared by Cornwall Council. Other guidance notes include.

1. <50kW solar PV and solar thermal

2. >50kW solar PV

3. Onshore wind

4. Anaerobic Digestion

5. Hydropower

6. Biomass installations

7. Heat pumps

8. Deep Geothermal

9. Advanced Energy from Waste

These guidance notes will be regularly reviewed and updated and can be viewed on our website at www.cornwall.gov.uk/renewableenergy

We hope that you find this planning guidance useful but if you have any queries please do not hesitate to contact the Planning and Regeneration Service at planning.county@cornwall.gov.uk or telephone 0300 1234 151.

We continuously seek to improve the quality of the advice and guidance that we offer and we would be happy to receive comments, suggestions or images which may improve this guidance document.

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Contents Page Introduction 3

What is Deep Geothermal Energy? 3

Cornwall’s granite as heat sources 4

The roles of the Local Planning Authority and the Environment Agency 5

Planning Team Structure in Cornwall 5

Pre-application discussions with the Local Planning Authority 6

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) 7

Appropriate Assessment (Habitats Directive 8

Issues to be considered in any Planning Application: 9

a) Siting 9

b) Landscape Character and Visual Impact 10

Case Study 1: United Downs Industrial Park, St Day 13

c) Design of buildings 14

d) Traffic movements and access to site 14

e) Vehicle movement and parking on site 15

f) Landscaping 16

g) Ecology 16

h) Historic Environment 19

Case Study 2: Eden Deep Geothermal Plant, St Austell 20

i) Noise 21

j) Seismic activity 22

k) Lighting 23

l) Water quality 24

m) Public Rights of Way 25

n) Site Safety 25

o) Use of Heat and/or Electricity and Grid Connection 26

p) Community involvement and engagement 26

Appendix A: Electricity generating capacity 28

Appendix B: Environmental Agency Environmental Permitting Regulations

29

Appendix C: Example planning conditions for deep geothermal energy facility

31

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Introduction For the purposes of this guidance document deep geothermal energy includes any geothermal source below 100m in depth. This will include mine waters, aquifer sources, such as a hot sedimentary aquifer (HSA), and ‘hot dry rocks’ (HDR) enhanced (or engineered) geothermal systems (EGS). This is distinct from ground source heat which provides a relatively low temperature heat found at comparatively shallow depths within the earth’s crust and which is derived from solar warming. A separate planning guidance document has been produced in respect of such heat pumps. What is Deep Geothermal Energy? Deep geothermal energy derives from a variety of sources. The deep interior of the Earth is heated by the slow leakage of the planet’s enormous internal heat reserves by conduction through the cooler outer rocks. Certain rocks within the Earth’s crust are also heated slowly over geological time by heat caused by natural radioactive decay. This applies particularly to granite which, given the large area of Cornwall underlain by granite, is particularly relevant to Cornwall. There are various types of geothermal resource which may potentially be exploited in Cornwall.

Recovering hot water from mines Water contained within, or flowing through, mine workings will absorb heat from the surrounding rock. Water temperature will, generally, increase by 3oC with each additional 100m depth and at a depth of 800m the temperature may potentially achieve temperatures in the region of 30-40oC. Warm water can be pumped from the

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rnwall.

mine, or allowed to flow out naturally, and the warm water can be used directly or indirectly for heating purposes. There are many mines in Cornwall from which energy could potentially be recovered from warm mine water. Recovering hot water from permeable rocks Water enclosed within permeable rocks, known as hot sedimentary aquifers (HSA’s), has become heated. This water can be pumped from the aquifer and used directly or indirectly for heating purposes. The underlying geology of Cornwall is likely to provide limited opportunity for such development in Cornwall. Engineered/Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) Water is injected to a depth of approximately 4-5km where it is heated by suitable rocks to temperatures exceeding 150oC. The rock is fractured, allowing the injected water to circulate and heat-up. Water or steam is then recaptured through another

borehole and returned to surface to produce renewable heat or drive steam turbines to generate renewable electricity. Cornwall was the location for Europe’s first deep geothermal research and development facility, the Hot Dry Rocks (HDR) project, which took place at Rosemanowes, near Penryn, between 1976 and 1991. It has been estimated that geothermal power from the south west of England alone could meet 2% of the UK’s annual electricity. The map, below, shows the geological heat flow within south-west England and it is clear that there is considerable potential for the development of Engineered/Enhanced Geothermal Systems within Co

Drilling rig at the former Rosemanowas Hot Dry Rocks Project. Image courtesy of EGS Energy Limited.

The viability of deep geothermal energy systems has increased dramatically in recent years as a result of a range of technical advances including; • Improved drilling technologies including the drilling of boreholes in hard rock to

depths up to 10km, directional drilling techniques and improvements to pumps and valves.

• Improved reservoir stimulation including the improvement of EGS has created highly conductive flow paths within the rock around boreholes.

• Improved understanding of reservoir development and operation. • Improved efficiency of energy conservation allows efficient heat recovery from

lower temperature sources. • New geological models have allowed additional hot dry rock resources to be

discovered.

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Cornwall’s granites as heat sources Granite is the only rock type in the Earth’s crust that intrinsically generates substantial heat. This is because the processes that led to granite magmas and their

subsequent evolution also concentrate the elements potassium (K), uranium (U) and thorium (Th). These elements decay radioactively generating heat in the process, and this heat accumulates in the granite over geological t Cornwall is famous for its granite, which underlies all of the upland areas including LanEnd, Carnmenellis, St Austell and Bodmin. These areas

highlighted in red on the simplified geological map of Cornwall above. The roles of the Local Planning Authority and the Environment Agency Planning consent will normally be required for the development of a deep geothermal energy facility. For some deep geothermal energy proposals an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) may also be required. Please see the section below for further details. Abstraction The Environment Agency is a statutory consultee on all planning applications covering more than one hectare, or requiring an Environmental Impact Assessment. Further information regarding the Environment Agency’s role is available at http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/business/sectors/32595.aspx Planning Team Structure in Cornwall The Planning and Regeneration function of Cornwall Council is structured within different teams. The Local Planning Team prepares planning policy and the Development Management Team deal with planning applications.

Planning Team

Role in Renewable Energy Contact Details

planning.county@cornwall.gov.uk Local

Planning Team

Develops policy and guidance across Cornwall Tel: 0300 1234 151

Strategic Development Management

Determines planning applications for strategic development across Cornwall

planning.county@cornwall.gov.uk Tel: 0300 1234 151

The relevant Area Planning Committees would normally determine any planning applications but if the proposal is for a deep geothermal installation that is considered

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to be strategically significant it would be considered by the Strategic Planning Committee.

Pre-application discussions with the Local Planning Authority Since 31 January 2012 the Council has introduced a fee for its pre-application service, which allows the Council to improve its service and provide a more consistent level of advice within agreed response times. For large scale proposals for deep geothermal installations, the Council recommends that on going pre-application discussions take place, with the benefit of comments from key consultees. In order to provide this service the Council recommends that a Planning Performance Agreement (PPA) is entered into. A Planning Performance Agreement is a framework agreed between the Council as local planning authority and an applicant for the management of complex development proposals within the planning process. A Planning Performance Agreement allows both the developer and the Council to agree a project plan and programme which will include the appropriate resources necessary to generally determine the planning application to a firm timetable. To find out more, you can view our Planning Performance Agreement charter. The Council is happy to have an initial no-cost discussion with developers about how a Planning Performance Agreement can assist a development project. Generic pre-application advice for Deep Geothermal Energy Installations. In order to facilitate pre application discussions it is recommended that developers provide the following initial information to initiate discussions: • A location plan (1:1250 metric scale), • A site/block plan (1:500 metric scale), • Details of drilling rigs/buildings proposed, including elevations, • Outline of any ancillary works, • A supporting statement, including proposed electrical grid connection and potential heat users, • A heat model of potential effects on other deep geothermal projects within a 10km radius of the site. Planning Application Fee The fee for geothermal proposals will depend on the nature of the scheme promoted by the applicant. It is possible that a developer may undertake trial drilling in the first instance, in order to ascertain the viability of any future longer term operation. The results of the trial drilling may determine the location and specification of any future drilling. The LPA will give due regard to this and it may be appropriate that planning applications are submitted in a ‘hybrid’ form i.e. part ‘full’ and in part ‘outline’ form whereby known aspects of the scheme are submitted with the initial application, and details of any future drilling equipment to be determined at the ‘reserved matters’ stage i.e. planning condition. In ‘hybrid’ situations the fee for each part would have to be calculated separately on the appropriate basis, subject to any relevant maximum, and the total – which would not be subject to any maximum – would then be chargeable. The LPA may also, following discussion, allow an application to be separated into core elements so that permission for site preparation works, say, can be given priority. The term ‘hybrid application’ is not defined in statute.

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Deep geothermal energy proposals usually require the development of a construction/drilling compound. For the purposes of fee calculation the local planning authority will treat such proposals under Category 2 of the Fees Regs[1] (i.e. non residential buildings) Applications for full permission for such buildings are charged according to the gross floor space to be created. Applications for development creating no new floor space, or not more than 40 square metres of new floor space, are charged a total fee of £170. Where floor space to be created would exceed 40 but not 75 square metres, the total fee is £335. For buildings above 75 but not exceeding 3,750 square metres of floor space, £335 is payable for each 75 square metres of the application site. However, if the area is greater than 3,750 square metres, there is a fixed fee of £16,565 plus another £100 for each 75 square metres in excess of 3,750 square metres, subject to a maximum in total of £250,000. Applications for planning permission sometimes involve development which falls into more than one of the categories set out in the Regulations. For instance, a geothermal facility may can include a building and an access road. Where a development potentially relates to two or more fee categories, only the highest of the fees calculated under each of those categories is charged e.g. it is likely the building fee will be the higher fee category than the access road, which usually attracts a flat rate fee of £170. Planning Application ‘red line’ and ‘blue line’. The planning application site boundary for a deep geothermal plant should be delineated by a ‘red line’ on a plan. This red line should encompass all development that requires planning permission. Any other land within the control or ownership of the applicant should be shown and edged with a blue line. If a planning application is submitted in hybrid form the red line should encompass the whole of the development including those areas subject to future reserved matters. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Environmental Impact Assessment is a systematic process of identifying, predicting and evaluating the likelihood of significant effects of a development on the environment. In planning terms Environmental Impact Assessment has a specific connotation and will need to be considered carefully in the development process. In those cases a formal ’Screening Opinion’ (see below) should be obtained from the local planning authority to confirm whether or not a proposed biomass scheme would need to be subject to Environmental Impact Assessment. Deep geothermal projects fall under Schedule 2, Category 3a of the Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 2011. A screening application on the need for an EIA will need to be submitted for the following installations: • Industrial installations for the production of electricity, steam or hot water, where

development exceeds 0.5ha or any part of the development is to be carried out in a ‘sensitive area; as defined by the Regulations; and

https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/7685/10.pdf

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• Industrial installations for carrying gas, steam and hot water where the area of works exceeds 1ha or any part of the development is to be carried out in a ‘sensitive area’ as defined by the Regulations.

If an Environmental Impact Assessment is required you are advised to obtain a ‘Scoping Opinion’ from the local planning authority. This Scoping Opinion will set out the detail and content that the Environmental Statement would need to address when submitting any planning application. The case officer dealing with the Screening Opinion will be able to provide further assistance regarding this matter. Obtaining a ‘Screening Opinion’ from the local planning authority The legislation covering Screening Opinions (the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations 2011) states that a request for a Screening Opinion in relation to an application for planning permission should be accompanied by; (a) A plan sufficient to identify the land; (b) A brief description of the nature and purpose of the development and of its

possible effects on the environment; and (c) Such other information or representations as the person making the request

may wish to provide or make. If an Environmental Impact Assessment is required a planning application will not be valid, and hence not registered, until this information has been prepared and accompanies the submission documents. A flow chart of the EIA Screening Procedures and the Screening Decision can be seen in appendix B. Appropriate Assessment (Habitats Directive) Careful consideration should be given to any potential impacts of the proposal on a ‘European Site’ which in the UK refers to a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and/or a Special Protection Area (SPA). Article 6.3 of the Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC means that Appropriate Assessments are required where plans or projects that are not directly linked to the management of that site may have a significant effect on the conservation objectives and would ultimately affect the integrity of the site. Where a deep geothermal proposal is considered likely to have a significant effect on the conservation objectives of a European Site, either alone or in combination with other plans or projects, it is likely an “Appropriate Assessment” of the proposed deep geothermal development and plant project will be required. Such assessments are undertaken by the Local Planning Authority for the purposes of the planning application. Where such assessments are required planning permission cannot be granted unless it can be ascertained that there would be no adverse impact on European Sites, and an assessment of alternative sites can be included in this consideration. For deep geothermal proposals the likely key factors to consider will include noise and emissions as well as surface and/or ground water impacts. The planning authority can provide more detailed advice on this process, as well as Natural England who are able to provide advice on ecological matters. Issues to be considered in any Planning Application The amount of information required will be dependent on the scale of the deep geothermal installation. The following guidance provides an overview of the planning considerations for deep geothermal installations and any information likely to be required to accompany a planning application.

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a) Siting Issues surrounding the siting of a deep geothermal facility include; • Scale of the facility; • The nearest sensitive receptor(s) and any intervening topography, structures or vegetation; • Transporting equipment, in particular drilling equipment, to the facility; • Site access; and • Proposed energy use, local heat users and connectivity of both heat users and electricity networks.

Sites which offer the potential for the utilisation of any surplus low grade heat by existing or proposed nearby heat consumers should generally be encouraged. It is possible that a developer may undertake trial drilling in the first instance, in order to ascertain the viability of any future longer term operation. The results of the trial drilling may determine the location and specification of any future drilling. The LPA will give due regard to this and it may be appropriate that planning applications are submitted in a ‘hybrid’ form i.e. part ‘full’ and in part ‘outline’ form whereby known aspects of the scheme are submitted with the initial application, and details of any future drilling equipment to be determined at the ‘reserved matters’ stage i.e. planning condition.

Planning Application Information Requirement Checklist The Local Planning Authority expects the following details to be included within any planning application: • Information on the scale of the facility. • The nearest noise sensitive receptors.

Aerial image of the Landau Geothermal Power Plant. Image courtesy of geox GmbH.

b) Landscape and Visual Impact Landscape and visual impact will need to be considered and the impact on any visually protected landscapes and areas (e.g. AONBs and Conservation Areas) will need to be addressed if there are any visual impact implications. The main landscape / visual impact from a deep geothermal facility are likely to be the impact of any temporary drilling operations, including lighting, and the impact of any long term or permanent surface infrastructure. Landscape Character Areas in Cornwall The Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Landscape Character Assessment (2007) records the variations in landscape character across Cornwall, identifying 40 Landscape ‘Character Areas’ (LCAs). The character area information of any development site can be accessed through the Cornwall Council web site at www.cornwall.gov.uk/cornwall_landscape. Cornwall is made up of a range of landscapes with a rich diversity of heritage and natural assets – it is important to understand the character of the landscape and how development might affect this character. Once an understanding of the qualities of the existing landscape has been

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established it is then possible to determine the sensitivity of the landscape to change and whether the landscape has the capacity to accept differing types of development. Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Areas of high scenic quality within Cornwall are recognised through landscape designations. Landscapes of distinctive natural beauty are protected by Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) status. The Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is comprised of 12 discrete and separate areas, including Bodmin Moor, the Camel Estuary and sections of the north and south coast. The Tamar Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty covers the Tamar Valley estuary and its inland rivers both in Cornwall and Devon. Over 30% of Cornwall is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The purpose of the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty designation is to conserve and enhance the natural beauty of the area. The designation gives formal recognition to an area’s landscape importance and allows for the development of communities and economic activity. The Cornwall AONB covers 958 sq km and consists of 12 separate geographical areas

The Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty designation is not necessarily a constraint on renewable energy development. Developments are encouraged provided that they do not have a significant adverse impact on the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. To find out if the proposed development site is located in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty please visit www.cornwall-aonb.gov.uk and view The Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Management Plan recently adopted by the Council.

Landscape and visual summary In order to minimise the landscape and visual impact of a proposed deep geothermal facility the following points should be considered at the initial stages of site identification, layout and design:

• Choose a site that is naturally screened by virtue of existing topography or mature vegetation/trees.

• Avoid locations which compromise important viewpoints especially at popular tourist destinations or along scenic routes.

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• Appropriate design, colour, scale, lighting and texture of buildings (see section b) are vital to prevent adverse impact on landscape character.

• Choose quality landscaping and boundary treatment to reduce the landscape and visual impact of the proposed development.

• Avoid impact on existing important landmark features such as church spires and towers.

Planning applications for deep geothermal facilities that include a temporary drilling rig and/or other tall structures should be accompanied by photo-montages sufficient to demonstrate both long and short distance views of the existing site, both with and without the proposed development. A Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA) may be required to accompany planning applications for certain deep geothermal facilities; however the detail and extent of these assessments will vary depending upon the nature and location of the proposed development. The local planning authority cannot specify the level of information required to accompany all planning application types because such applications will vary in their characteristics. A reputable planning consultant or landscape architect should be able to provide these services. However in general terms smaller scale geothermal facilities which are proposed in landscapes which are not sensitive for their visual and landscape interest will not normally require a Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment whereas larger geothermal facilities in sensitive and/or protected areas e.g. Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty may require a Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment.

Planning Application Information Requirement Checklist The Local Planning Authority expects the following details to be included with any planning application:

• Information on the Landscape Character Area (LCA) and an assessment of the impact of the proposed development on the key characteristics of this LCA.

• For large scale proposals with large temporary drilling rigs or other tall structures, professional photomontages from agreed viewpoints may be required.

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Case Study 1: United Downs Industrial Park, St Day Planning Permission 10/00056/GEO In March 2010 Geothermal Engineering Limited submitted a ‘hybrid’ planning application (comprising part detail, part outline) for the drilling of three deep wells to an approximate depth of 5000m with associated pumping and test equipment and the temporary erection of on-site offices and welfare facilities (detailed) and the development of a power generating plant, pumping equipment, electrical infrastructure and buildings (outline). The proposal would eventually generate 10MW of electricity for the grid and 55MW of heat for local use. The application site was an unoccupied plot on an industrial estate approximately 600m east of the closest residential properties in Carharrack. Although the site was relatively remote there were a number of properties within the vicinity. The development would require the temporary use of a 50m tall drilling rig which would be on site for 12-15 months over a two year period, leaving the site between drilling operations. Planning Issues The scheme received no objections from both statutory consultees and local residents. Planning permission was subsequently granted in October 2010. Visual Impacts - The impact of the proposed development on the surrounding landscape was one of the main planning issues in relation to the planning application. The drilling rig would be visible from several miles away. A detailed landscape and visual assessment accompanied the planning application and this identified that the drilling rig would have an adverse impact on the landscape character of the site and surrounding area. The height of the drilling rig meant that any mitigation to reduce its impact would be unachievable although its temporary nature meant that such impacts would also be temporary. Seismology – An array of seismometers installed to monitor the Hot Dry Rocks project at Rosemanowes Quarry detected regular natural seismic activity. The proposed enhanced geothermal system (EGS) would create seismic events due to the injection and circulation of water at depth. As part of the proposed development a microseismic network would be installed. This would be used to determine trends in event locations and magnitudes and could be used to instigate certain controls, such as the cessation of pumping. Noise – The planning application was accompanied by a detailed noise impact assessment in order to determine the impact of the proposed drilling operation. It was concluded that noise from the drilling operation would not have a significant impact at any of the receptor properties. Noise limits were subsequently imposed by planning condition and the operators would implement best practice in order to ensure that the recommended noise limits are not exceeded. Traffic and transport - During initial site preparation there would be approximately 50 vehicle movements daily (25 in and 25 out). The setting up of the drilling rig would involve approximately 80 articulated vehicle movements (40 in and 40 out) over a period of several days. The impact of the proposed development on the local highway network was considered by the County Highways Officer who raised no objection to the proposal. A planning condition requiring the submission of a traffic management plan was subsequently attached to the planning permission.

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c) Design of Buildings The design, layout and setting of any permanent, or semi-permanent, buildings or structures will all need to be considered. It is important that any adverse visual impact is minimised and that, where practicable, such development should make a positive contribution, in landscape and visual terms, to a locality.

All buildings or structures should be sensitively located and designed with appropriate finishes and colours. Buildings and structures need not be unattractive and the local planning authority would expect to see high design standards applied to any proposed installation.

Planning Application Information Requirement Checklist • The colour and external finish of any new plant/buildings should compliment any

existing buildings.

• If located adjacent to existing buildings the new buildings should have similar profile roofing/cladding and use sympathetic colours.

• If located in an urban/industrial area there may be scope for more radical design that could enhance the area rather than copy existing designs.

• Where feasible reuse/convert existing buildings to accommodate part of the deep geothermal energy process.

• The scale and heights of buildings/structures should, where possible, be comparable with nearby buildings.

• The use of quality materials and finishes will not only improve the appearance of any installation but will also reduce future maintenance costs and ensure buildings will not become dishevelled in the near future.

• Design solutions should be sensitive to the locality.

d) Traffic movements and access to site Deep geothermal schemes will need to consider site access issues, particularly in relation to the importation of construction equipment and any drilling rig. A large facility may generate significant vehicle movements and there is a need to ensure that the local highway network and site access is able to accommodate the type and number of vehicle movements which may be generated. A traffic management plan may need to be prepared in order to avoid unnecessary local traffic disruption. The traffic management plan should seek to include measures such as:

• Avoidance of HGV deliveries during local peak/school traffic periods. • Temporary traffic management systems for site access. • Reduced speed limits on all identified routes to reduce potential of traffic accidents.

Planning Application Information Requirement Checklist The site entrance and access onto the public highway should be designed and constructed to provide safe access and egress to the site. It is essential to take advice from the Council’s Highways Department regarding such matters. A planning application may need to be accompanied by a Traffic Assessment for large scale proposals (over 2MW). Important issues to consider within a Traffic Assessment are: • Avoiding sensitive areas, such as residential access roads if possible;

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• The width, gradient and distance from other junctions and road features; • The speed limits; and • Current (surveyed) and predicted traffic flows on the public highway, including

predicted daily movements to and from the site, broken down by vehicle types, over the length of a working day.

Additionally the local planning authority would expect the following to be considered:

• All vehicles leaving the site shall have clean wheels to avoid spreading of mud or debris on the highway and therefore a wheel wash facility may be required, with good drainage and maintenance features, located at the side of the site access road at least 30m from the junction with the public highway. The site access road should be hard surfaced and sweepable between the wheel wash and the public highway. The site access should, where possible, be designed to avoid surface water flowing out onto the public highway.

• Adequate visibility splays onto the highway for traffic entering and leaving the site.

• Avoid vehicle movements, especially HGVs, at critical times such as local school opening and closing times, special local events such as carnivals or sporting matches.

• Voluntary reduced speed limits of lorries on all identified known dangerous routes to reduce potential of traffic accidents.

• Where abnormal loads need to be brought to the site a traffic management plan may need to be produced. The Council provides advice for the movement of abnormal loads and should be contacted via abloads@cornwall.gov.uk.

• Signage to be designed and located so as not to be visually intrusive in the local area especially if in a designated landscape.

e) Vehicle movement and parking on site Vehicles associated with the construction and maintenance of a deep geothermal facility will need to be able to manoeuvre internally whilst not causing any external vehicle problems in the local area and therefore the following issues need to be addressed by the operator of the proposed facility.

• Suitable parking spaces and manoeuvring areas within the site for development, operational, employees and visitors vehicles.

• Adequate vehicle turning and manoeuvring arrangements within the site during plant operation, to be shown on scaled site plan.

• Waiting area for lorries within site to prevent lorries “stacking” up and having to park on the public highway causing a potential hazard.

Planning Application Information Requirement Checklist

For deep geothermal facilities the Local Planning Authority expects the following details to be included within any planning application:

• Details of any proposed vehicle parking; turning and manoeuvring arrangements and lorry waiting areas. This should be shown on a scale plan.

• Schedule of lorry movements and type of activity for 24 hour period on site to be submitted with any planning application to ensure no adverse impact on neighbouring uses particularly at night and early morning.

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f) Landscaping The use of appropriate landscaping can alter the near and distant views of a deep geothermal energy facility. Landscaping should take its lead from the existing and indigenous landscape and ecology. The Council expects the following guidance to be considered in the preparation of any planning proposal for a deep geothermal energy facility: • Where ground needs to be excavated the material that is removed should be used

as bunding to provide a natural boundary or screening for any proposed building(s) or structures.

• Bunding should be planted with locally indigenous vegetation to provide screening. • Existing Cornish hedges and vegetation, including mature trees, should be retained

wherever possible. • Cornish hedging is encouraged but it should be of the local style appropriate to

that part of Cornwall and contain appropriate stone. Cornwall Council has produced ‘The Cornish Building Stone and Slate Guide’1 which contains information of types and sources of local building stone.

• If located on an industrial site fencing and/or boundary walls should be of a scale and type suitable to that location.

• Fencing and boundary walls should be constructed of quality materials that minimise the need for maintenance.

• The use of electrified or barbed wire or similar fencing would not normally be supported.

Planning Application Information Requirement Checklist

The Local Planning Authority expects the following details to be included within any planning application for a deep geothermal energy facility: • A schedule of plant species, heights and spacing and maintenance where planting

is proposed. • Information on the type of landscaping proposed. • Details of any boundary fencing, hedging or walling. g) Ecology Deep geothermal energy facilities may be proposed on, or in close proximity, to designated areas of special ecological interest. Such locations in Cornwall may contain some of the most important and sensitive habitats and species, some of which are legally protected. There is a need to ensure any potentially significant or damaging effects on these habitats and species are avoided or minimised. The Cornwall Mapping Service2 identifies sites of high and protected ecological value such as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) or a Special Area of Conservation (SAC), or Cornwall Nature Conservation Site (County Wildlife Site). The Council recommends that suchareas should, where possible, be avoided for all facility development. Where a proposed development is considered likely to have a significant effect on the conservation objectives of a designated ‘European Site’ (Special Area of Conservat(SAC) or Special Protection Area (SPA)) an Appropriate Assessment will be required under the Habitats Dir

ion

ective3.

1 http://www.cornwall.gov.uk/default.aspx?page=15721 2 http://mapping.cornwall.gov.uk/website/ccmap/ 3 Article 6.3 of the Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC means that Appropriate Assessments are required where plans or projects that are not directly linked to the management of that site may have a significant effect on the conservation objectives and would ultimately affect the integrity of the site.

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Such assessments are undertaken by the Local Planning Authority for the purposes of the planning application. Where such assessments are required planning permission cannot be granted unless it can be ascertained that there would be no adverse impact on European Sites, and an assessment of alternative sites can be included in this consideration. For energy from waste proposals the likely key factors to consider will include emissions as well as surface and/or ground water impacts. The planning authority can provide more detailed advice on this process, as well as Natural England who are able to provide advice on ecological matters. Defra’s mapping (http://magic.defra.gov.uk/) can be used as a tool to identify if a site has been identified of being of ecological value in order to avoid harm to the wildlife of these sites. Proposed deep geothermal energy facilities may fall within the scope of Environmental Impact Assessment. An Ecological Impact Assessment, which will form part of the Environmental Impact Assessment, will identify wildlife management issues connected with habitat creation and design including loss of, and damage to, habitats, plant and animal species. The ‘Biological and Geological Conservation: Planning Good Practice Guidance for Cornwall (2007)4’ provides advice on how to take account of biodiversity and geo-diversity in the development process. It also sets out legal requirements and good practice recommendations. Provision of adequate data, surveys (completed at the appropriate time of the year) and where possible avoidance of sites containing protected species/habitats will help reduce the time required to determine any planning application. Some of these ecological surveys can only be undertaken at specific times of the year (e.g. when the animal is active and not dormant). The chart below, provided by Cornwall Environmental Consultants Limited, outlines the seasons when particular surveys should, and should not, be undertaken.

4 http://www.cornwall.gov.uk/idoc.ashx?docid=0bb84ae2-8fbe-4b3f-a4cd-4709dd3bc42b&version=-1

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Source: Cornwall Environmental Consultants Ltd

Careful consideration should be given to the seasonality of ecological surveys as the need to undertake a particular survey can have a significant impact on the preparation, submission and determination of a planning application. Impacts of the development on ecology can be mitigated by: • Retaining key ecological features within the site design. Features should be large

enough to be self-sustaining or linked to similar habitats outside the development e.g. by hedgerows,

• Constructing of wildlife features such as bunding, screening and wildlife-proof fences,

• Rescuing or translocation of individual plants or animals to an alternative site, • Restoring the site once development has ceased, • Enhancing existing habitats or the creation of new habitats on land set aside for

that purpose, or on land outside the proposed development.

Planning Application Information Requirement Checklist The Local Planning Authority expects the following details to be included within any planning application for deep geothermal energy scheme: • An ecological impact assessment, either as part of the Environmental Impact

Assessment or Appropriate Assessment, or as a separate assessment. Good Practice Guidance for Cornwall (2007) This Good Practice Guidance provides advice on how to take account of bio-diversity and geo-diversity in the development process. It also sets out legal requirements and good practice recommendations-see http://www.cornwall.gov.uk/idoc.ashx?docid=0bb84ae2-8fbe-4b3f-a4cd-4709dd3bc42b&version=-1

Planning Application Information Requirement Checklist

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The local planning authority expects the following information to be submitted with any planning application:

• The ecological impact of the proposed development on the development site, and any nearby designated areas of special ecological interest, should be addressed.

• Ecological Impact Assessment should be part of any proposal requiring an Environmental Impact Assessment.

h) Historic Environment Cornwall has an especially important historic environment and there are 12,500 Listed Buildings within Cornwall (details of these buildings may be found at http://www.cornwall.gov.uk/default.aspx?page=2441). There are also 145 Conservation Areas in Cornwall covering 4,070 hectares of land. These areas have been designated due to their special architectural or historic interest and the installation of a deep geothermal energy facility in, or near, such areas should therefore be considered sensitively. In addition over 5% of Cornwall is designated as a World Heritage Site (WHS). The World Heritage Site is designated for its mining heritage. The World Heritage Site is not necessarily a constraint on renewable energy development; however such development within, or adjacent to, the World Heritage Site must be designed and installed in a manner which does not harm the values of the site. To find out if you are in any of these areas please visit http://www.cornwall.gov.uk/default.aspx?page=17724 on the Council website.

The potential impact of a deep geothermal energy facility on Cornwall’s cultural heritage (listed buildings, Scheduled Monuments, Conservation Areas, World Heritage Site, registered Historic Landscapes and Parks and Gardens of Special Historic Interest) can be defined in two ways:

1. Direct physical impact or loss of identified features of historic interest including undiscovered archaeology.

2. Visual impact on the character or appearance and setting of features of historic interest.

A deep geothermal energy facility may cause direct impacts on archaeological deposits through ground disturbance associated with trenching, foundations, fencing, new access routes etc. Generally sites should be located away from known archaeological sites as recorded on the Cornwall Historic Environment Record – these can be located online using http://www.heritagegateway.org.uk/gateway/advanced_search.aspx Where planning applications are received within known archaeologically sensitive locations, the Council is likely to seek professional archaeological monitoring of ground works as a condition of any planning permission. Deep geothermal energy facilities should normally be located away from Scheduled Monuments and from sites or areas where they would affect the character or setting of a Listed Building. Visual impacts on historic sites may include the effects of such development on the setting of Listed Buildings and Scheduled Monuments as well as on the Historic Landscape Character of Cornwall. Assessment of such impacts may be more involved than simply noting the presence of such assets on or close to a proposed site – consultation with the relevant area Historic Environment advice teams is essential. Photomontages and Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) will inform this advice.

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Case Study 2: Eden Deep Geothermal Plant, St Austell Planning Permission 10/04671 In August 2010 EGS Energy Limited submitted a ‘hybrid’ planning application (comprising part detailed, part outline) for the drilling of two deep wells to an approximate depth of 4,500m and the temporary erection of on-site offices and welfare facilities (detailed) and the development of a geothermal power generating station (outline). The final design of the power station has yet to be determined and would be the subject of a further planning application for detailed design. The proposal would eventually generate 4.5MW of electricity for the grid and 3.5MW of heat, with the nearby Eden Project utilising approximately a small proportion of this heat and electricity. The application site was located at the northern end of the Eden Project estate, approximately 2km north-east of St Austell. The site is currently unused, although it had previously been proposed to be used as a temporary car park. Although the site was relatively remote there were a number of residential properties within the vicinity, the nearest being approximately 80m to the east. The development would require the temporary use of a 55m tall drilling rig which would be on site for approximately 10 months. Planning Issues The scheme received no objections from both statutory consultees and local residents. Planning permission was subsequently granted in December 2010. Visual Impacts – The planning application was accompanied by a detailed landscape and visual assessment. This assessment acknowledged that the drilling rig would cause the greatest visual and landscape impact and identified that the predicted adverse effects beyond the immediate local area would predominantly arise as a result of the scale and nature of the construction stage, particularly the drilling rig. Given the height of the drilling rig, and the fact that it would be located on the site for a temporary period, it was not considered that any further mitigation to reduce its impact would be achievable and it was therefore considered acceptable. Seismology – A seismic study was undertaken by the applicant on the potential seismic hazard of the potential development. The study considered the seismic potential associated with ‘induced’ and ‘triggered’ seismicity and this would be monitored continuously during construction and operation. EGS Energy will be establishing a seismic detection network around the site to enable the development of the sub-surface reservoir to be monitored and to assist with the control of operating parameters. Noise – The planning application acknowledged that two particular development phases had the potential to generate high noise levels. These development phases included initial ground work activities and the operation of the drilling rig. Noise consultants employed by the applicant were able to satisfy the requirements of the Council’s acoustic advisor in terms of the proposed maximum noise levels and these noise levels could be controlled by the imposition of appropriate planning conditions. Traffic and transport – The applicant estimated that the major vehicle movements associated with the proposal would be focused on the importation and erection of the drilling rig. This would involve approximately 180 articulated vehicle movements (90 in and 90 out) over a period of several days. It was considered that the nearby road network, improved during the development of the Eden Project, was able to accommodate the type and number of vehicles proposed. A planning condition requiring the submission of a traffic management plan was subsequently attached to the planning permission.

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The landscape/visual impact must be considered with great care at the pre-application stage, where appropriate the Council’s Landscape Architects and the Historic Environment Service should be consulted at an early stage and mitigation measures proposed wherever necessary. Existing Cornish hedges and established vegetation, including mature trees, should be retained wherever possible. Trees and hedges should be protected during construction. Additional hedge planting should be considered where such landscape screening would beneficially screen the proposed development.

Planning Application Information Requirement Checklist The local planning authority expects the following information to be submitted with any planning application:

• An archaeological assessment is required for sites which may have an impact on any site of known or suspected archaeological interest.

An assessment is also required where any proposal may have an impact on the character or setting of a Listed Building, Conservation Area, Scheduled Monument or World Heritage Site.

i) Noise The development of a deep geothermal energy facility is likely to require an extensive, albeit temporary, drilling operation in order to achieve the significant depths required. This drilling operation would normally operate on 24 hour, 7 days a week basis. Such operational hours/days have the potential to cause significant and unacceptable impact on sensitive receptors such as residential properties or schools particularly at night or early morning. This is likely to be one of the most sensitive elements associated with such a development proposal. If applicable the following measures could reduce any potential noise impact:

• Operations to be undertaken within closed buildings where practicable.

• Buildings designed to reduce internal noise transmission.

• All plant to be designed with noise reduction measures such as external motors housed in sound proofed covers.

• Site designed with acoustic barriers such as bunding, planting and fencing.

• All vehicles servicing the site to be properly maintained especially including exhaust systems.

• Vehicle reversing warning systems to be visual rather than audible when on site if close to sensitive noise receptors.

• Noise monitoring regime in place for larger installations if sensitive receptors such as housing are present.

• Noise assessment to be submitted as part of planning application-contact the Council’s Environmental Protection Team for full detail needed in submission.

Planning Application Information Requirement Checklist

The local planning authority expects the following information to be submitted with any planning application:

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• A plan identifying the location of the proposed deep geothermal energy facility, with respect to noise-sensitive receptors.

• A table, detailing the separation distance between the proposed deep geothermal energy facility and noise-sensitive receptors.

• Noise emission data for the proposed drilling rig and power station facility. • Auditable predictions to determine noise levels arising from the drilling rig and

power station facility at the closest noise-sensitive receptors.

j) Seismic activity Engineered geothermal systems (EGS) are based on artificially enhancing the permeability of the rock at the heat source using a technique known as reservoir stimulation. This requires the rock to be fractured (or ‘fracking’) by injecting fluids under exceptionally high pressures, a technique widely used in the oil industry to enhance the extraction of oil. Under certain tectonic circumstances this fracturing has led to earthquakes large enough to be felt by residents near the injection well. An EGS project in Basel, Switzerland was cancelled in 2009 because of increased seismic activity. Such fracturing associated with the recent extraction of shale gas in Lancashire was associated with two small earthquakes (1.5 and 2.3 magnitude) and the site operator, Cuadrilla, paused such fracking operations in order to study possible induced seismicity and methods to mitigate earthquake risk. A Seismic Hazard Assessment should be undertaken by a deep geothermal developer to assess the potential for seismicity associated with development and operation of the proposed geothermal system. This would consider: • The historical and existing level of seismic activity in the area of the development

site and the nature of the underlying geology. • The likelihood of the development inducing and/or triggering seismic activity,

details of predicted seismic activity at ground surface resulting from the proposals and any measures to avoid or mitigate such seismic activity.

• The measures to be adopted to monitor seismic activity during site development and operation, the maximum level of seismic activity and the measures to be adopted should this seismic level be exceeded.

Planning Application Information Requirement Checklist

The Local Planning Authority expects the following details to be included within any planning application for a deep geothermal energy facility: • The historical and existing level of seismic activity in the area of the development

site and the nature of the underlying geology. • The likelihood of the development inducing seismic activity and any measures to

avoid or mitigate such seismic activity. • The measures to be adopted to monitor and control seismic activity during site

preparation and operation, the maximum level of seismic activity envisaged and the measures to be adopted should this seismic level be exceeded.

Induced Seismicity Mitigation Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) draft guidance for induced seismicity mitigation suggests that, based on experience in the US, the following best practice outline is recommended for any hydraulic fracture developments: 1. Formal risk assessment of potential well drilling and completion operation

impacts, prior to spudding (beginning) the well

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2. Geophysical logging, to delineate the base of freshwater aquifers and determine reservoir parameters

3. Surface casing and packers/cement deep enough to protect freshwater aquifers 4. Production completion (casing/cement packers) designed to prevent upward

migration of reservoir and injected fluids (e.g. intermediate string inclusion, if necessary)

5. Cement bond logging and pressure testing of each completion string to ensure good seals

6. Drilling and frac fluid storage in tanks and offsite burial of drill cuttings 7. Fracture diagnostics, especially microseismic and tiltmeter monitoring of

hydraulic fracture growth 8. Avoidance of fracturing near faults/subsurface structures 9. Reuse of frac fluid to reduce freshwater resource impacts and potential disposal

issues 10. Water sampling before and after drilling/HF operations to ensure no aquifer contamination. 11. Regular updates and frequent engagement with stakeholders, about ongoing

operations. The above list is a general guide for shale play development, but 1-6 are what DECC would consider good general practice for hydraulically fractured wells, and would be recommended for any new well drilled onshore. Developers are advised to consult the DECC website for any updates to the above. k) Lighting For larger scale deep geothermal installations, external lighting may be required, particularly during initial drilling operations. During drilling adequate lighting is an essential requirement for health and safety, but where possible such lighting needs to be directional. Once operational, such artificial lighting should be subtle to enhance the buildings and structures and reduce the impact of operational light sources. Use of low energy lighting should also be a consideration. There is also potential ecological disturbance caused by light pollution, such as disturbance of bird species. It is good practice to reduce light pollution and reduce energy consumption by only using lighting when required. The Institution of Lighting Engineers provides guidance on reducing obtrusive light (light pollution) http://www.britastro.org/dark-skies/pdfs/ile.pdf. The following lighting measures should be considered: • Where possible, selected lighting circuits will be operated on timer switches /

motion detectors to enable lower levels of lighting outside of normal operating hours or when lighting is not required.

• The design of this lighting will be undertaken to ensure that light is directed downwards towards the ground so as to avoid unnecessary light spill and light trespass off site.

• Avoid permanent lighting on edge of site particularly at access points that front the public highway.

• Use of planting and bunding to contain lighting effects. • Review of lighting impacts after installation. • No distraction to the public highway. • Ensure no dwellings are impacted by light source from site.

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Planning Application Information Requirement Checklist The local planning authority expects the following information to be submitted with any planning application:

• A plan showing the location and height of any external lighting proposed, and the days/hours when such lighting would be illuminated.

Twilight image of the drilling rig at the Landau Geothermal Power Plant. Image courtesy of BESTEC GmbH.

l) Water – its source and quality Water emerging from mine workings may contain suspended solids, heavy metals or high levels of acidity and careful consideration should therefore be given to the abstraction and use of such water for the purposes of heating or electricity generation. This is less likely to be such an issue with the use of mine workings or deep geothermal energy facilities where a closed loop system would avoid the risk of such liquids escaping. Although Cornwall is known for its temperate, maritime climate some of Cornwall’s steep valleys and lowland areas are subject to flash floods. Groundwater is a vital element of the natural water cycle which helps to sustain rivers and wetlands in times of drought, and is a source for some of our drinking water. Cornwall has no major aquifers but water can be abstracted from groundwater sources for private water supplies. Climate change over the next few decades is likely to result in different weather patterns and conditions in the UK. In addition, sea levels are expected to rise. These factors may lead to increased and new risks from flooding within the lifetime of a planned deep geothermal energy facility and this should be considered as part of the Flood Risk Assessment. Therefore the proposed location of the deep geothermal energy facility must consider: • The source of the water to be used during the development and operation of the

deep geothermal plant. • The method of water abstraction and circulation within the energy recovery

process, the quality of such water and the possibility/consequence of such waters escaping into the local water environment.

• The distances from the boundary of the site to residential or recreational areas, waterways, water bodies and other agricultural or urban sites.

• The existence of groundwater, coastal water or nature protection areas in the locality.

• The geological or hydrological conditions in the area. • The risk of flooding or subsidence on the site.

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Planning Application Information Requirement Checklist

The Local Planning Authority expects the following details to be included within any planning application for a deep geothermal energy facility where new buildings are proposed: • Details of water abstraction and circulation within the energy recovery system, the

quantity and quality of such water, the possibility/consequence of such waters escaping into the local environment and any control measures proposed in order to mitigate or avoid such circumstances.

• Details of any surface water drainage arising from the proposed development and any effluent discharge proposed.

• A flood risk assessment. m) Public Rights of Way

Public rights of way include footpaths, bridleways and byways open to all traffic. There are 4,357km (2,706 miles) of public rights of way in Cornwall including 491km (305 miles) of South West Coast Path. It is an offence to obstruct a pavement (footway) and the fact that planning permission has been granted, or is not required, does not entitle a developer to obstruct, interfere or move a Public Right of Way. The Definitive Map and Statement is the legal record of public footpaths, bridleways and byways and can be viewed at http://www.cornwall.gov.uk/default.aspx?page=12899. A development may impact upon a right of way and a diversion or temporary stoppage may be required. Under the provisions of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, a Modification Order may be applied for to re-grade or delete an existing right of way. It is recommended that discussions take place with the Countryside Access Team (0300 1234 202 or accessteam@cornwall.gov.uk) at the earliest opportunity to discuss possible impacts on any public right of way. It is also recommended that discussions are undertaken with a planning officer at the Council if any action is necessary. Where there is a public vantage point or public right of way within the vicinity of the proposed site it may be beneficial to install interpretation boards to explain the project.

Planning Application Information Requirement Checklist The local planning authority expects the following information to be submitted with any planning application:

• A plan should be submitted showing the location of any public rights of way within the vicinity of the proposed development. Where the proposed development would have an impact on a public right of way any mitigation measures (such as landscape screening) or proposed diversions (temporary or permanent) should be detailed.

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n) Site Safety For large commercial scale schemes, The Health and Safety Executive can provide much advice on these matters as does the Environment Agency via its permitting regime. However many accidents are caused by moving vehicles and to reduce risk the following measures should be considered: • restrict vehicle speed through the use of speed humps, traffic-calming and speed

limit signs. • segregate people and vehicles through clear signage and direction, the use of one-

way systems (where possible) specific parking or pedestrian areas. • minimise the need for reversing through the use of one-way systems. • ensure adequate lighting on site and that all employees and visitors wear high

visibility/safety clothing.

o) Use of Heat and/or Electricity and Grid Connection Application proposals should provide a broad indication of the amount of energy (electricity and heat) generated which will be used. If this includes external recipients, the route of connectivity should be indicated to those users. Where it is proposed that the facility will produce electricity, details should be provided to show the route of the electrical connection, this is to ensure that the proposed route avoids areas of high ecological, landscape or archaeological sensitivity.

Planning Application Information Requirement Checklist The local planning authority expects the following information to be submitted with any planning application:

• Details of how the facility would connect to external recipients (either heat pipes or

connection to the grid network) and whether such connection would be above or below ground. Such works do not need to be encapsulated within the planning application boundary, or planning fee, but such details should be provided for information purposes.

p) Community involvement and engagement For large scale proposals, community involvement and engagement should be considered as an integral part of the development process. The extent of this engagement will depend upon the size, nature and location of the proposed development although developers are advised to discuss their proposal with neighbours and nearby residents at the pre-design, conceptual stage in order to allow any views to be taken into account prior to the submission of a formal planning application.

A public consultation event in association with the proposed Eden Deep Geothermal Plant. Image courtesy of EGS Energy Limited.

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The use of interpretation and display boards, such as these examples at Delabole Wind Farm and the Wheal Jane Solar Farm, to explain the purpose and function of a deep geothermal energy facility and raise awareness about renewable energy is something that developers are encouraged to consider.

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Appendix A: Electricity generating capacity – required if electricity generation is proposed Planning applications for electricity generating facilities should be accompanied by the following information.

Installed capacity (kW) 1

Capacity factor 2

Estimated annual production (kWh p.a.) 3

Number of residential properties electricity equivalent 4

Notes: 1 Installed capacity is the full-load, continuous rating of generating equipment under specific conditions as designated by the manufacturer. In other words, this is the power generated when the equipment is working at full capacity. 2 Capacity factor is the calculated factor which compares the plant's actual production over a given period of time with the amount of power the plant would have produced if it had run at full capacity for the same amount of time. The capacity factor should take account of the specific equipment and the specific location. It is expressed as a percentage. 3 Estimated annual production of electricity based upon the installed capacity and the capacity factor. 4 Number of residential properties that would be powered by the estimated annual production based upon the U.K. average household consumption of 4,629 KWh/year, the South West England average household consumption of 4,993 KWh/year and the Cornwall average household consumption of 5,869 KWh/year (DECC 2007). The number of U.K., SW and Cornwall household equivalent should be provided in this box. Average electricity consumption in Cornwall is currently greater than the U.K. and SW average and so the number of typical residential properties in Cornwall powered by a particular source would be lower.

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Appendix B Screening Procedures Overview

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Appendix C: Example planning conditions for deep geothermal energy proposals. Sample conditions are set out below; these are based on recently permitted deep geothermal energy facilities. Commencement 1. The development hereby permitted shall be begun not later than the expiration of three years beginning with the date of this decision. The operators shall submit the date of commencement within 7 days of the development commencing. 2. The application for approval of reserved matters, in relation to the Geothermal Power Station, shall be submitted to the Local Planning Authority (LPA) before the expiration of three years from the date of this decision. The development of the Geothermal Power Station shall not commence until the reserved matters have been agreed in writing by the LPA. The reserved matters are; a) The siting of all buildings, structures, hard-standings, plant and machinery, roadways, accesses and fencing; b) The design and external appearance including full dimensions of all

buildings, structures and plant and machinery, (including details of the colour, materials and finish to be used); c) Landscaping proposals including an accurate plan showing the position,

type and spread of all existing trees on the site and a schedule detailing the size and condition of each tree and the measures proposed for its protection;

d) The finished levels (above ordnance datum) of both the ground floor of all buildings, structures, plant and machinery and surrounding ground levels; e) The provision of foul sewers and surface water drains; f) The alignment, height and materials of all walls and fences and other means of enclosure; g) The provision to be made for access, parking, turning, loading and unloading of vehicles; h) The provision of external lighting;

i) Details of all machinery, plant and equipment to be installed in or located on the approved site, which is audible outside of the site boundary when in use, shall be submitted in writing to the LPA. These details shall include maximum sound levels (LAmax (f)) and average sound levels (LAeq) and any proposed mitigation measures. Any approved noise mitigation measures shall be fully implemented and operational before the associated machinery, plant and equipment.

j) A timetable for the construction of the Geothermal Power Station and method of construction including details of traffic movements associated with its construction and operation. The development of the Geothermal Power Station must be begun before the expiration of two years from the date of approval of the last of the reserved matters and shall be carried out in accordance with the approved reserved matters. Matters to be agreed prior to the commencement of development

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3. Prior to the commencement of development, the operators shall have submitted to, and had approved in writing by the LPA, full details of the microseismic survey. This shall include the location of the microseismic network and shall provide for the opportunity to amend the location of sensors if required by the LPA. The records from the network shall be provided to the LPA following receipt by the LPA of a complaint regarding a possible seismic event. The survey shall include full details of the control measures to be implemented should any potentially damaging seismic trends become apparent. Following the approval of the LPA the microseismic survey shall be undertaken throughout the operational life of the development and the results of the monitoring shall be submitted annually to the LPA, or within five working days of a request for such information

4. Prior to the commencement of development, the operators shall have submitted to, and had agreed in writing by the LPA, full details of the drilling rig to be used on the site. The drilling rig shall be no more than 52.8m in height and the drilling rig erected shall be in accordance with the agreed details. 5. Prior to the commencement of development, the operators shall have submitted to, and had agreed in writing by the LPA, a Construction Traffic Management Plan and programme of works. The Plan shall include construction vehicle details (number, size and type) vehicular routes, delivery hours and contractors arrangements (compound, storage, parking, turning, surfacing, drainage and wheel wash facilities). The development shall be carried out in accordance with the approved Plan. 6. Prior to the commencement of development the operators shall have submitted, and had agreed in writing by the LPA, a Construction Environment Management Plan (CEMP). This shall include details showing how emissions to air, water and soils are controlled and how pollution would be prevented and the responses necessary should prevention measures fail. The CEMP shall include a section for the statutory site waste management plan and a Construction Method Statement detailing how the development would be constructed. The development shall take place in accordance with the approved CEMP. 7. Prior to the commencement of development, the operators shall have submitted and had agreed in writing by the LPA a timetable and details of arrangements for a regular local liaison group meeting. The operators shall be responsible for convening and hosting these meetings, taking minutes and distributing papers. The details shall include the constitution of the Group and frequency of meetings. The meetings shall take place in accordance with the approved details. Control of Development 8. Unless otherwise agreed in writing with the Local Planning Authority (LPA), or required by the further conditions below, the development shall take place in strict accordance with the submitted details and following drawings and details:-

Drawing No. 440178.wor Fig PL_1 (Location Plan)

Drawing No. 440178.wor Fig PL_2 (Site Plan) Drawing No. 440178.wor Fig PL_3 (Block Plan including Finished Floor Levels) Drawing No. 440178.dwg Fig PL_4 Sheet 1 (Proposed Elevations) Drawing No. 440178.dwg Fig PL_4 Sheet 2 (Proposed Elevations) Drawing No. 440178.dwg Fig PL_5 (Typical Mast Elevations) Drawing No. 440178.wor Fig PL_6 (Tree survey)

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Table 5.8 (Summary of Mitigation and Residual Effects)

Table 6.5 (Visible Component Features of the Operations, with mitigation)

Section 9.61 (Ecological Mitigation in relation to breeding birds and site clearance.)

Section 10.54 (Mitigation Measures Noise and Vibration)

Noise (Enabling Works) 9. The noise emissions from the enabling works (Site preparation, construction, equipment and associated infrastructure importation, erection and export and drilling rig importation, erection and export) shall not exceed 65dB LAeq, 1 hour as measured 1 metre from the façade of any noise-sensitive receptor during normal working hours. No noise is to be generated outside of the normal working hours, as detailed in condition 10 below. Noise (Operations) 10. The noise emissions from operations at the site shall not exceed 45dB LAeq, 1 hour as measured 1 metre from the façade of any noise-sensitive receptor at any time. Working Hours (Enabling Works) 11. Unless otherwise agreed in writing by the local planning authority, no construction or enabling works excluding drilling operations shall take place except between the following hours:-

Between 07:00 and 19:00 Monday to Fridays inclusive. Between 07:00 and 13:00 Saturdays. There shall be no working on Sundays, Bank Holidays or Public Holidays. Access and Highway Matters 12. Best practicable means shall be employed at all times to ensure that vehicles leaving the site during construction and operational periods and which enter the public highway are in a condition such as not to emit dust or deposit mud, slurry or other debris.

Amenity Protection 13. There shall be no lighting of the approved development areas except in accordance with details to be agreed in writing with the LPA. Any approved lighting shall be positioned so as not to cause glare or annoyance to local residents or users of the adjacent public highway. 14. All practicable means shall be employed by the operators for preventing and minimising the emission of dust, fumes, odour or the creation of vibration during the approved use of the site. Vehicles, plant and machinery operated within the site shall be fitted with silencers in accordance with the manufacturers’ specifications and shall be maintained to their specification at all times.

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Soil stripping/storage 15. All available soils shall be stripped from the development areas. Topsoil and subsoil shall be stripped and stored separately for subsequent re-use in profiling the site in accordance with details to be agreed in writing with the LPA. Restoration 16. At such time as the development is not used for the purposes hereby approved, all buildings, structures, hard-standings, plant and machinery, roadways and fencing shall be removed and the land restored in accordance with details to be agreed in writing by the LPA.