Renewables Planning Manager

Spencer Ogden is seeking a Renewables Planning Manager in Edinburgh to lead planning strategies for wind and solar projects. Responsibilities include managing planning applications, engaging with stakeholders, ensuring compliance with Scottish policies, and supporting project development. The ideal candidate is an MRTPI-qualified Town Planner with experience in renewable energy. This full-time role offers a chance to contribute to Scotland's renewable energy transition.
Our client is a well-funded renewable energy developer, backed by a prominent investment fund, with an expanding portfolio of wind and solar projects across the UK. Committed to driving the transition to a net-zero future, they are seeking an experienced Planning Manager to lead planning strategies and secure approvals for their pipeline of renewable energy projects.

As a Planning Manager, you will play a key role in shaping the planning strategy for utility-scale renewable energy projects across Scotland. You will be responsible for managing and submitting planning applications, including Section 36 consents, engaging with stakeholders, and ensuring compliance with Scottish planning policies. This is an excellent opportunity for an MRTPI-qualified Town Planner with experience in the renewables sector to join a forward-thinking company at the forefront of the energy transition.

Key Responsibilities
• Planning Applications & Section 36 Consents: Lead and manage the preparation, submission, and negotiation of planning applications, including large-scale Section 36 applications for renewable energy projects.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Liaise with local authorities, Scottish Government, statutory consultees, landowners, and community groups to ensure successful project delivery.
• Policy & Compliance: Ensure all projects align with Scottish planning policies, NPF4, Section 36 requirements, environmental regulations, and national energy strategies
• Project Development Support: Work closely with internal teams (e.g., development, grid, and technical teams) to optimize site selection, design, and planning strategies.
• Appeals & Hearings: Provide expert planning input for public inquiries, planning appeals, Section 36 hearings, and stakeholder consultations.
• Consultant Management: Appoint and manage external planning consultants, EIA specialists, and legal advisors where required.

Key Requirements
• MRTPI Chartered Planner with a strong background in renewable energy planning
• Proven experience in submitting and securing planning consents, including Section 36 applications, for utility-scale onshore wind, solar, or BESS projects in Scotland
• Strong knowledge of Scottish planning policy, NPF4, Section 36 procedures, environmental impact assessments (EIA), and relevant legislation
• Experience working within a renewable energy developer, IPP, consultancy, or local authority
• Excellent stakeholder management and negotiation skills, with the ability to communicate complex planning matters effectively
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and deliver high-quality work within tight deadlines

This is an exciting opportunity to be at the heart of Scotland’s renewable energy transition, working with a leading developer and an expert team driving sustainable energy solutions. Apply now or reach out to me at siti.murphy@spencer-ogden.com for a confidential chat.