Development Planner - Renewable Energy

Climate17; Leeds; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent renewable energy firm in the UK is seeking a Development Planner to oversee planning applications and engage with stakeholders on solar and battery storage projects. Ideal candidates will possess a degree in Town Planning and at least three years of relevant experience. This role offers the opportunity to work in a fast-paced environment within a company that is committed to making a positive impact in the renewable energy sector. The role requires excellent communication and project management skills.

Qualifications

• Minimum three years' experience in planning (local authority, consultancy, or developer).
• Chartered RTPI membership or eligibility.
• Strong understanding of UK planning regulations and procedures.
• Experience in renewable energy or major developments is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage planning applications for renewable energy developments.
• Provide planning advice to internal teams and external partners.
• Liaise with local authorities and stakeholders.
• Monitor changes in planning policy.
• Represent the organization at planning committees.

Skills

Project management

Stakeholder engagement

Negotiation skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Education

Degree in Town Planning or related field

Job description

Development Planner – Renewable Energy

Location: Liverpool

A rapidly growing renewable energy developer is looking for a Development Planner to join its expanding Planning & Design function. In this role, you'll oversee planning applications, engage with key stakeholders, and support the delivery of solar, battery storage, and broader energy infrastructure projects.

Professionals with three or more years’ experience in town planning - whether from local authority, consultancy, or developer backgrounds are encouraged to apply. More junior applicants may also be considered at a lower grade.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage planning applications for renewable energy developments, with a focus on solar and battery projects.
• Provide planning advice to internal teams and external partners, ensuring alignment with UK legislation and local policy.
• Liaise with local authorities, community groups, consultants, and multidisciplinary teams across environmental, legal, and engineering disciplines.
• Monitor changes in planning policy and best-practice guidance, ensuring projects remain compliant and well-positioned.
• Represent the organisation at planning committees, public inquiries, and stakeholder meetings.
• Support business development by identifying opportunities and contributing to proposal development.

About you

• Degree (or equivalent) in Town Planning, Urban Planning, or a related field.
• Chartered RTPI membership or eligibility.
• Minimum three years’ experience in planning (local authority, consultancy, or developer).
• Strong understanding of UK planning regulations and procedures.
• Experience in renewable energy, grid infrastructure, or major developments is desirable, but adjacent sectors are also suitable.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines, with strong analytical and report-writing capability.
• Proactive, solution-focused mindset and ability to work independently or collaboratively.
• Candidates will need a full UK driving licence and access to a car.

You’ll thrive in a fast-growing environment and bring a values-led, ambitious approach to your work. The company is scaling rapidly with a strong pipeline of energy projects, and they’re looking for someone who shares their drive for impact and high performance.

About Us

Climate17 is a purpose-led, international Renewable Energy & Sustainability recruitment firm. We provide specialist talent acquisition services to organisations seeking to reduce their environmental footprint, as well as those working towards the decarbonisation of the energy sector.

Inclusive Application Process

Climate17 is committed to creating a diverse, inclusive and equitable workplace. We believe there is no solution to climate change without people. We aim to increase diversity across all areas and as such, we are committed to partnering with clients and candidates to create an inclusive and sustainable regenerative world.

We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their ethnicity, race, gender, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, age, or whether or not they have a disability.

If you require additional support, equipment or resources in order to participate in the job application or interview process, please let us know.

To apply

Contact David Blake at Climate17 for more information about this opportunity.

[e-mail]