BISHAMPTON residents have been urged to air their views at a virtual public consultation for a proposed solar farm north of Broad Lane.
The proposed development, by Bristol-based Aura Power, is for a solar farm of up to 45.575 MW capacity which would generate enough renewable electricity to supply the equivalent of 11,730 homes. It would save an estimated 14,300 tonnes of CO2 per year, making a substantial contribution to local and national net zero targets.
Because of the current social distancing restrictions in place, Aura Power has decided to hold the consultation online on Tuesday (July 28) at 6pm.
Chris Featonby, UK development manager for Aura Power, said: “Last year the UK set a target to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050, and solar power is one of the best ways we have of decarbonising the energy sector at a low cost.
“As the country starts to emerge from an unprecedented global health crisis, the government has pledged to ‘build back greener’ as part of its economic stimulus measures.
“We know not everyone likes the idea of change in the countryside, but this is a very good site for a solar farm as it will be naturally well screened by existing hedgerows.
“We will also be installing battery storage which means the energy can be used when it is needed most. We’re looking forward to find out what local people think of our plans.”
As well as generating renewable energy, the proposals also include measures to improve biodiversity and ecology at the site, sheep grazing to manage the land, and a community benefit fund to be spent on local educational, social and environmental projects.
Visit www.aurapower.co.uk/bishampton-solar-farm for more.
