Volume One 18. Energy [D] 18.M.3 District rules Enable the use of appropriate land resources for micro renewable energy developments through permitted activity rules (including standards) for small scale and domestic solar and wind generation installations. Where a proposal does not meet the standards specified for permitted activities, resource consent will be required. Wind generation installations are not considered appropriate in residential environments due to the potential for adverse noise effects. Apply district rules to ensure that minimum building setbacks are sufficient to allow sunlight access to adjoining properties. [R, C] 18.M.4 Regional rules Enable the use of water resources for micro renewable energy developments through permitted activity rules for the taking, damming or diversion of water associated with small scale and domestic hydro-electric generation installations. Permitted activity rules will not be appropriate for some surface water bodies because they contain significant instream values. Apply regional rules to larger scale renewable energy developments involving the use and occupation of the coastal marine area, the taking, damming or diversion of water or the discharge of contaminants to land, water or air. [RPS] 18.M.5 Information Work with supply and installation companies, interest groups and the Marlborough community to share and discuss information about solar energy and to generally advocate the opportunities for and benefits of using solar energy to the Marlborough community. [RPS] 18.M.6 Liaison Work with central government agencies, particularly EECA, to ensure that central government-led initiatives, particularly those around solar energy, are maximised in Marlborough. Work with Nelson City Council and Tasman District Council to explore opportunities for collaboratively advancing the uptake of solar energy. [RPS] 18.M.7 Advocacy Advocate to Central Government that, along with the private sector, it support innovation and research into renewable energy technologies. This could include the provision of a fair sell-back pricing policy for surplus electricity from micro generation. Encourage building companies to showcase best practice methods in terms of energy efficiency, micro renewable generation and passive solar design. [RPS, D] Objective 18.2 – Increased efficiency in the use of energy. Section 7(ba) of the RMA requires regard to be had to the efficiency of the end use of energy. Efficient use of energy is consuming the minimum amount of energy for the maximum desired output. Increasing demand for energy at a local or individual level has an impact on the resources needed to provide energy, as well as infrastructure such as roads and generation schemes. A reduced demand for energy as a result of more efficient use will reduce demand on these resources in the short term. 18 – 5