Installing microgeneration devices such as solar panels and wind turbines is to get easier for Scottish residents, according to finance secretary John Swinney.

Following a consultation on planning reforms, the Scottish government is to lift the need for households to secure planning permission before installing microgeneration systems.

While claiming that renewable energy equipment could not just be put up anywhere, he said that freeing small scale renewable technologies from the bureaucracy of the planning system would protect the environment and household finances.

Under the new proposals, Permitted Development Rights will allow householders to install certain microgeneration technologies such as solar panels and biomass systems, without requiring permission as they do at the moment.

Mr Swinney said: "These new measures will slash red tape and help householders cut their energy bills. They will also help reduce emissions at a time when we all need to play our part in tackling climate change."

The Scottish government has set a target of meeting 20 per cent of energy requirements from renewable sources by 2020.