A PLANNING consultancy which has an office in Weston says applications for renewable energy have soared in recent months.

Aspire Planning, based in Drove Road, believes the rise is because farmers are rushing to cash in on government incentives to invest in green technology.

The consultancy, which advises landowners seeking planning permission for wind turbines and solar parks, is currently handling dozens of renewable energy applications nationally.

The government scheme offers farmers guarantees payments for every surplus unit of electricity produced by wind or solar power but the high level of subsidy is only available until April 2012.

James Davis, managing director, said landowners should act now to take advantage of the tariffs, but they should do their ‘homework’ first.

He added: “Renewable energy schemes can certainly help farmers boost profits and cut their energy bills.

“But landowners should always seek professional advice before investing in green technologies.”

The Mercury reported last week how Enfinity UK wants to build a solar park on a piece of farmland in Bleadon, and if given the green light, it could be up-and-running by next year.