JBM Solar Projects 6 Ltd application for solar farm in Halloughton say it would contribute to UK's net zero carbon targets
The applicants behind plans for a solar farm say that, if agreed, it would help contribute to the UK’s net zero carbon reduction targets.
The application, by JBM Solar Projects 6 Ltd, wants to create a solar farm, battery stations and associated works, at land north of Halloughton.
“We view large-scale solar as a vital part of the country’s future energy mix,” said the firm’s directors.
“It is our hope that Cotmoor Solar Farm can also contribute to this target and assist in tackling the climate emergency.
“All of our projects go through a rigorous site selection process and are only brought forward to planning stage when it’s clear they meet local and national planning guidelines.
“We rely on the local planning authority to determine whether our application has merit. In the meantime, we remain committed to working with the parish council and residents to address feedback from the community.
“Our experienced team worked hard to put together a well-considered proposal for Cotmoor Solar Farm.
“This project brings significant benefits, primarily through the generation of renewable energy, providing enough low-carbon electricity to power the equivalent of 12,209 homes’ annual energy needs, thus contributing to the security of energy supply for Newark and Sherwood.
“The project will displace the equivalent of 827,605 tonnes of CO2 from equivalent traditional fossil fuel energy production over the operational lifespan of 40 years and allow Nottinghamshire to play its part in reducing greenhouse gas emissions in line with local, national and international targets.
“The project will also contribute to an improvement in air quality as thermal plants slowly disappear across the UK.”
It is estimated that there will be up to 80 workers on-site during peak times of the construction period, which is expected to be around six months, as well as an additional 106 temporary jobs in the wider economy during the build phase.
Permission is sought for the farm to exist for 40 years from when it start to generate electricity, after which it would be restored to agricultural use.
The site spans 13 agricultural fields. There is an area of woodland to the west that would be unaffected but improved for biodiversity.
The site will also be capable of dual use farming such as organic sheep farming, during its operational period, with small livestock able to graze the land between and among the panels.
Biodiversity enhancement and landscaping will be introduced across the site.
The company said: “This project is the culmination of many months of hard work by our development team and will hopefully mark an important step on the road to developing a large portfolio of JBM projects in the coming months and years.
“It is also gratifying that if permitted our Cotmoor solar project will provide a valuable community benefit, with a commitment to the local parish council to help fund up to 50KW of rooftop solar installations in the area or other sustainable initiatives.”