Plans submitted for huge 78-acre solar farm near Northampton capable of powering 3,000 homes
Plans have been submitted for a large-scale solar farm on farmland near Northampton.
The proposal would see the 78.2-acre site called The Green, north of Preston Deanery, developed with more than 50,000 solar panels, alongside associated infrastructure including power stations, fencing and access tracks.
According to planning documents, the scheme would consist of 51,090 panels, up to 10 power stations, a customer substation and a grid connection point.
The development would generate up to 27.8 megawatts of electricity – enough to power more than 3,000 homes – contributing towards national net zero targets, according to plans.
The applicant, Grange Farm Partnership said: “The solar farm will generate up to 27.8 MW of electricity, which will provide well over 3,000 homes within the locality with electricity and go towards the government’s goal of achieving net zero by 2050. Part of this ambition from the government is to increase the UK’s current solar capacity five-fold. In order to do this, sites such as this are important contributors.
“The proposal would provide a clean, renewable and sustainable form of electricity. It would make a valuable contribution to the generation of electricity at a local level. It is considered that the application proposal would contribute to the government’s objectives for an ongoing transition to a low carbon economy with increased renewable energy generation as part of the commitment to the net zero agenda.
“This is a public benefit which should be afforded significant weight in the planning balance.”
Planning documents state the development would operate as a temporary installation, with the land able to return to agricultural use once the solar panels reach the end of their lifespan.
The application also highlights the site’s location close to existing and proposed development, including a planned 800-home housing scheme nearby.
The report says: “This, therefore, clearly demonstrates that whilst the site at presents as open countryside, it is in fact in a very strong position given the context of the surrounding land uses and emerging development, to provide clean electricity back to the locality and seek to meet the likely increase in demand for electricity given the proposed developments.”
Environmental assessments submitted with the application state the site is located in Flood Zone 1, meaning it is at low risk of flooding.
West Northamptonshire Council has set a target decision date for April 30.