Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, pursuant to the Answer of 11 June 2014, Official Report, column 167W, on wind power: electrical substations, what constitutes a nationally significant infrastructure proposal (a) generally and (b) in relation to onshore wind farms.

The Planning Act 2008 defines what can be included in an application for development consent for a nationally significant infrastructure project (NSIP). Electricity substations are not categorised as NSIPs in their own right but, under the Act, can be included in an application for development consent for such a project if they can be considered as associated development in England.

In addition, substations may be included in applications for generating stations (including onshore wind farms) under the Act if they are integral to the main development.