Environmental Permit - Medium Combustion Plant
Medium combustion plant (MCP) with thermal input between 1MW and 50MW require an environmental permit from the Environment …
Energy & Utilities
Energy and utilities
Environmental Permit - Part A(1) Installation
Large combustion plant (50MW thermal input and above) and other major industrial installations require a Part A(1) environmental permit.
UK-wide
Guide summary
If you operate a large combustion plant (50MW or more) or major industrial installation in England, you must apply for a Part A(1) environmental permit. From February 2026, new or refurbished plants must show how they will reduce carbon emissions. You must also monitor and report emissions if your plant is over 20MW.
- Apply for a Part A(1) permit for plants 50MW or more
- From Feb 2026, include a decarbonisation plan for new plants
- Show feasibility for carbon capture or hydrogen conversion
- Monitor emissions if your plant is over 20MW
- Report emissions by 31 March each year
- Surrender carbon allowances by 30 April each year
- Pay application fees from £10,000 to £50,000+
- Allow 12-18 months for permit approval
- Keep records for 10 years
- Follow Best Available Techniques (BAT) standards
On this page
UK-wide
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What is a Part A(1) installation?
Part A(1) installations include combustion plant with thermal input of 50MW or more, refineries, and other major industrial processes with significant environmental impact.
Decarbonisation readiness (from Feb 2026)
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1
Submit bespoke permit application
Submit bespoke permit application to Environment Agency
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2
Include Environmental Impact Assessment
Include Environmental Impact Assessment if required
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3
Demonstrate BAT compliance
Demonstrate Best Available Techniques (BAT) compliance
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4
Include decarbonisation readiness
From Feb 2026, include decarbonisation readiness report
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5
Pay application fee
Pay risk-based application fee (typically £10,000-£50,000+)
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6
Allow determination time
Allow 12-18 months for determination of complex applications