GUIDE TO RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECT PLANNING

The processes involved in setting up and delivering renewable energy projects - such as wind farms, solar arrays and large-scale battery installations - will depend on the location, scale and technology you choose. For site managers, this often means coordinating multiple contractors, securing permissions and making sure teams have access to the right welfare facilities throughout the project.

Alongside the technical planning and regulatory approvals, every project needs a safe, comfortable environment where teams can work productively. That’s where our cabins come in - we provide a range of sleeping accommodation, showers, dining and rest areas that can be delivered and installed quickly and cost-effectively.

This guide outlines what’s involved in planning a renewable energy project and the key factors you need to consider to make sure everything proceeds smoothly.

THE IMPORTANCE OF EARLY PLANNING AND FEASIBILITY

A successful renewable energy project starts with a clear vision and a realistic assessment of your goals. Early planning helps identify potential risks, evaluate resource availability and establish a solid business case.

You will need to consider several important factors before your project begins:

• Supplies and equipment: what materials, machinery and technology will be required to build and operate your renewable energy system.
• Resource allocation: scheduling this equipment, personnel and materials.
• Site preparation: establishing secure access routes, laydown areas and welfare facilities.
• Location: where the project will be carried out, and whether the site is suitable.
• Costs: the expenses involved in construction, operation and long-term maintenance.
• Project timelines: from initial planning to project operations and asset management.
• Risk management: how you will identify potential risks early and put mitigation strategies in place.
• Contingency planning: preparing for weather disruption, supply delays or regulatory inspections.

By addressing these areas early on, you can make informed decisions, set clear project goals and position your renewable energy sector project for long-term success.

NAVIGATING REGULATORY FRAMEWORKS

Every renewable energy development must comply with a range of regulatory frameworks. Planning consent, environmental impact assessments and grid connection agreements are often required before construction can begin.

Typical considerations include:

• Planning permission: secured through your local authority, often with input from environmental agencies and community stakeholders.
• Environmental impact: evaluated through formal assessments to protect habitats, waterways and air quality.
• Health and safety: managed under HSE requirements for site welfare and worker protection.
• Ongoing compliance: maintaining records and reporting obligations throughout the project lifecycle.

Bunkabin helps ease the pressure of compliance by supplying ready-to-deploy welfare facilities that meet HSE standards. With access to comfortable accommodation, toilets, and rest spaces available, project managers can address regulatory requirements for staff welfare and demonstrate their commitment to best practice.

THE ROLE OF SITE WELFARE AND ACCOMMODATION

Large-scale projects like renewable energy systems often operate in rural or exposed locations. To complete any project of this nature requires a supply of necessary professionals who can undertake the construction work or installation. This makes welfare and accommodation facilities a key consideration for project managers.

If you are responsible for providing personal protection equipment and amenities, you should make sure they comply with the HSE's requirements and that you have satisfied all of your legal responsibilities.

For longer projects, you should consider investing in temporary accommodation and welfare facilities for your site. These bring many benefits and are, in some cases, a necessary part of your construction site. For example, you must provide toilets, somewhere for workers to wash, rest and avoid the elements. This is especially relevant for sites located in rural areas, which may require workers to travel significant distances to find these welfare facilities elsewhere.

For workers who require lodgings, temporary sleeping cabins can help to reduce commuting times, costs of hotel stays and carbon emissions from vehicles used to travel to and from the site.

WHY CHOOSE BUNKABIN FOR YOUR RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECT

Bunkabin has supported a wide range of renewable energy projects across the UK, including:

• Wind farms
• Solar developments
• Biomass installations
• Tidal and hydro projects

We offer fast deployment, quick install and can scale - up or down - to match the needs of your project. Our service model is designed for fast deployment, responsive scaling and reliable support. From the Scottish Highlands to the South Coast of England, our team can deliver, install and remove cabins to any location accessible by a HGV.

By choosing Bunkabin, you get:

• Expert advice: helping you plan welfare provision that meets regulations and project requirements.
• Flexible hire terms: short, medium or long-term contracts that work to your schedule.
• Robust and comfortable cabins: built to support productivity and wellbeing on any site.
• Proven experience: backed by over 40 years supplying on-site welfare and sleeping accommodation across many industries.

For more information on how Bunkabin can help you to meet HSE welfare requirements for construction and project sites, take a look at the Site Sleeper cabins we offer.

GET IN TOUCH

If you’re planning a renewable energy project and need practical, cost-effective accommodation for your team, we are ready to help.

Call us today on 0345 456 7899 or fill out our online enquiry form. We’ll work with you to understand your site welfare accommodation needs, and the best way to support your workforce at every stage.