Large-Scale Ground-Mounted Photovoltaic System with an Area Exceeding 2 ha (or over 0.5 ha in Protected Areas)
Steps in the investment process for implementing such a system
For ground-mounted PV systems with an area exceeding 2 ha or more than 0.5 ha in protected areas, the longest investment path is required, extended by an environmental procedure.
Step 1 – Obtaining a decision on environmental conditions
Obtaining an environmental decision (decision on environmental conditions) is the first stage in the investment and construction process for a ground-mounted photovoltaic installation exceeding 2 ha or 0.5 ha in protected areas (the area is determined by the outline of the outermost panel modules).
Detailed description of this procedure can be found at the following link:
Decision on Environmental Conditions
Step 2 – Spatial planning procedures
In the Polish legal framework, the most important instruments are: Local Spatial Development Plans (MPZP), and in areas not covered by these plans, during the transitional period following the entry into force of the spatial planning reform (Act of 7 July 2023 amending the Act on Spatial Planning and Development and certain other acts, Journal of Laws 2023, item 1688) – Decisions on Land Development Conditions. An additional solution introduced by the reform is the Integrated Investment Plan (ZPI).
Step 3 – Obtaining grid connection conditions
Grid connection conditions are a type of document issued by the distribution or transmission system operator, specifying the technical details related to connecting the photovoltaic power plant to the grid. They also constitute the operator’s obligation to sign a grid connection agreement with the investor, under which the system will be connected to the network. Grid connection conditions, therefore, enable a “temporary reservation of capacity in the grid” for a given project.
If the generator does not conclude a grid connection agreement within 24 months from the date of receipt of the connection conditions, these conditions expire and no longer constitute an obligation to enter into the agreement.
Step 4 – Obtaining a construction permit
A construction permit is an element of the investment process that forms the basis for commencing construction works on the photovoltaic power plant. Without this decision, it is not possible to start construction works or, at a later stage, proceed to its operation.
Step 5 – Notification on completion of construction works
Photovoltaic power plants have not been classified as facilities requiring an occupancy permit. Therefore, commissioning of the photovoltaic power plant is possible after notifying the building supervision authority of the completion of construction works, provided that the authority does not raise an objection by way of a decision within 14 days from the date of delivery of the notification.
Step 6 – Obtaining a licence for the generation of electricity from renewable energy sources (RES)
Obtaining a licence is the final step before commencing the operation of the photovoltaic power plant.