What permissions do I need before erecting or connecting a turbine?

Planning permission is required if the characteristics of the system to be installed are outside those described in Statutory Instrument No. 83 of 2007 or Statutory Instrument No. 235 of 2008. You should contact your local authority to ensure that the exemptions apply at your location and you are not subject to the restrictions on exemptions as outlined in SI No. 600 of 2001. (Refer also to the FAQ covering planning requirements).

ESB Networks operate an 'inform and consent' system of registering a grid connected system. The interface with the grid must be of a type compliant with EN 50438. ESB Networks maintains a list of 'type tests' for grid interfaces or inverters which comply with European standard EN50438.

The conditions governing the connection of a microgenerator, including the important points of EN 50438, can be viewed on the ESB Networks website.
The standard ensures quality of output if exporting or connected to the grid. The turbine must stop producing in times of grid outage. While it would be useful to have your own source of power during a network outage the automatic shutdown of a grid connected turbine is necessary to minimise the risk of injury to line technicians repairing or working on a line.

The Commission for Energy Regulation directed that individuals planning installations below 1 MW in capacity (includes all microgenerators) will no longer be required to apply for an Authorisation to Construct or a Licence to Generate. Each installation will stand duly authorised by order. All generators must comply with the requirements of the orders so it is each generator's interest to review the conditions of the authorisation and licence.