Consultation Gets Underway For Solar Farm In West Northamptonshire Planned By EDF Renewables

EDF Renewables is planning to develop a 49.9 MW solar farm in Glassthorpe between the villages of Flore and Upper Heyford, along the M1 Corridor, which will be capable of generating enough low-carbon electricity for the domestic needs of 9,562 households annually.

A number of ecological and feasibility surveys have been carried out and the company is consulting with local people at an early stage about the proposal to get their views ahead of submitting a planning application later this year. 

CO2 emission savings 

Amongst growing concerns about climate change, the 49.9 MW project at Glassthorpe could contribute to saving around 21,598 tons of carbon dioxide emissions each year.

The project will also deliver significant additional local benefits, including a community fund of £10,000 paid annually for the 35-year lifetime of the project. 

Solar technology 

If we secure planning permission, investments like these will contribute to the UK’s green economic recovery"

EDF Renewables’ Head of Development - Stephen Walls said, “This is an excellent site for a solar farm, as it’s suitably sunny, with an agreed grid connection, and the area is well screened. EDF Renewables is an experienced developer and we are firmly committed to solar as a technology that will help us accelerate a net zero future where clean energy powers our lives."

He adds, "If we secure planning permission, investments like these will also contribute to the UK’s green economic recovery from COVID–19. We look forward to hearing the views of local people.”

Biodiversity

Existing hedgerows on site will be retained and new ones created as part of EDF Renewables’ plans to improve biodiversity, which include planting trees and new wildflower meadows on once-agricultural land. 

EDF Renewables is engaging early with the community so local people have the opportunity to shape the company’s plans for the project.

public consultation

Residents near the site are being contacted by post and members of the public are encouraged to visit EDF Renewables’ Glassthorpe website for further information, to register for live online events, and to provide feedback.

The public consultation closes on 5th July 2021 and EDF Renewables intends to submit a planning application to West Northamptonshire Council later this year.