Beleidsregel voor kleine zonnestroomsystemen in de gemeente Zwartewaterland – Guidelines for Small Ground-Mounted Solar Systems
The Beleidsregel voor kleine zonnestroomsystemen in de gemeente Zwartewaterland is a municipal policy framework established by the afdeling duurzaamheid (Sustainability Department) in 2023. This document functions as a assessment framework for the installation of small ground-mounted solar power systems with a maximum surface area of 100 square meters. It operates within the broader context of the Programma Energietransitie Zwartewaterland, which aims to generate at least 49% of local energy consumption sustainably by 2030, and the Omgevingsvisie Overijssel.
The policy governs the placement of ground-mounted photovoltaic systems intended for self-consumption. It addresses specific scenarios where roof-mounted installations are technically unfeasible due to construction constraints, such as thatched roofs, the presence of asbestos, or insufficient roof surface. The regulation defines concrete standards for location, dimensions, and landscape integration, ensuring that small-scale solar initiatives align with the aesthetic and safety requirements of the municipality. It provides clarity on the criteria used for welfare assessments (welstandsbeoordeling) and environmental permit applications (omgevingsvergunning).
This document outlines the hierarchy of energy generation, prioritizing roof-mounted systems before permitting ground-mounted alternatives. It details the administrative steps, including participation reports and liability agreements, necessary for local residents and businesses to transition to sustainable energy within the municipal boundaries of Zwartewaterland.
Scope and Definitions
The policy defines a zonnestroomsysteem as a setup of photovoltaic solar panels designed specifically for generating electricity for private use. This term is preferred over 'solar park' or 'solar field', which the municipality reserves for large-scale projects exceeding 2 hectares.
- Target Use: Electricity must be primarily intended for the energy demand of the local address; commercial energy production is not permitted under this rule.
- Scale: This specific policy applies to installations up to 100 m2.
- Preference Hierarchy: Ground-mounted systems are considered only when roof-mounted options are technically or constructively unsuitable or insufficient to meet energy needs.
Location and Dimensional Requirements
Specific spatial criteria are established in Artikel 3 and Artikel 4 to minimize the impact on the landscape and the direct environment.
- Surface Area: The maximum surface area for the solar system is 100 m2, though deviations may be permitted for high-volume energy users if properly motivated.
- Maximum Height: Installations may not exceed a height of 1 meter, aligning with the national Besluit omgevingsrecht (Bor).
- Building Line: Systems must be placed entirely behind the rooilijn (building line) to prevent visual disruption of the property's facade.
- Placement: The system must be situated on the owner's own terrain and must directly join or be adjacent to the existing erfensemble (farm/yard ensemble).
Landscape Integration and Safety
Artikel 5 mandates a landscape integration plan (inpassingsplan) for ground-mounted installations to ensure they blend into the local environment.
- Visual Impact: Attention must be paid to materials, color schemes that match surrounding buildings and vegetation, and the preservation of sightlines.
- Traffic Safety: The system must be positioned to prevent glare or reflections that could distract or hinder road users.
- Technical Safety: Systems exceeding 5 kVA are required to have a brandweerknop (fireman's switch) or safety switch installed.
Administrative Procedures and Liability
Initiators are responsible for the feasibility of their plans and must adhere to procedural requirements regarding community engagement and financial liability.
- Participation: Initiators are requested to engage with the local community and submit a participation report as part of their request for cooperation.
- Planning Damage: The municipality is not liable for planschade (planning-related damages). A planschadeovereenkomst (compensation agreement) must be signed between the initiator and the municipality.
- Small Wind Turbines: In rural areas, the use of a small wind turbine (erfmolen) is preferred only in combination with solar on roofs or ground-mounted systems, unless those are not feasible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum height allowed for ground-mounted solar panels in Zwartewaterland?
According to Article 3, the maximum height for a ground-mounted solar system is 1 meter.
Can I install more than 100 square meters of solar panels on the ground?
The standard maximum is 100 m2, but Article 7 allows for deviations if the initiator can provide a motivated justification showing a higher capacity is needed for their own energy consumption.
Where on my property can I place the solar system?
The system must be placed entirely behind the building line (rooilijn) and must be on your own terrain, preferably adjacent to the existing yard or buildings (erfensemble).
Is a safety switch required for my solar installation?
A safety switch or fireman's switch (brandweerknop) is mandatory for systems with a capacity greater than 5 kVA as per Article 5.
Must I check if my roof is suitable before applying for a ground-mounted system?
Yes, Article 4 states that ground-mounted systems are only allowed if the roof is technically or constructively unsuitable or if the roof area is insufficient to meet the energy demand.
What happens if my solar system causes glare for drivers?
Article 5 requires that systems be installed in a way that prevents nuisance or distraction for road users; the permit application must describe measures taken to prevent this.
