A CONSULTATION is underway on a proposed solar farm near Darlington.
The development by UK solar developer Lightrock Power would cover 66 hectares of land to the north of Sadberge.
The company says Longpasture Solar Farm will generate enough power to supply 14,000 homes or 17,700 electric vehicles.
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Chris Sowerbutts, co-founder of Lightrock Power said “This is an excellent site for solar; it gets lots of sunshine, is well screened, and has good access. We’re also really pleased that we can connect to the local electricity network on-site, meaning minimum disruption to the local community.
“We are pleased to be able to provide a community benefit endowment to the value of £100,000 which will continue to run well after our solar panels have been recycled.
“Grants can be applied for through the County Durham Community Foundation once the site is operational.”
There has been a spate of recent applications for solar farms in the area.
Elsewhere, plans for a 62-hectare solar farm have been submitted by Aura Power on land at Burtree Lane, Whessoe.
Northumbrian Water also wants to install nearly 16,000 solar panels near its Broken Scar facility.
And last year a Durham County Council planning committee approved proposals for another solar scheme by Lightrock Power near Brafferton.
The company says it is working with the RSPB to create the best possible habitat for wildlife.
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Measures such as incorporating mammal gates into the site’s fencing, and creation of new wildlife corridors will allow a diverse range of species to thrive.
A spokesperson for Lightrock added: “The crisis in Ukraine has made the UK’s departure from oil and gas more urgent than ever and expanding renewable energy generation at home will enable us to take back control of our power supply.”
Lightrock Power has written to residents inviting them to find out more about the project and provide feedback.
The early community consultation runs from June 6 until July 4.
An online exhibition detailing the plans is available at www.longpasturessolarfarm.com.
Subject to consultation and further site assessments, the company intends to submit a planning application in the summer.
Printed copies of all online material can be obtained by contacting Lightrock Power on 0114 2866217 or by emailing longpasture@lightrockpower.com.
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