Plans for a massive solar farm spanning 2,238 acres of rural land have entered a new consultation phase.
Between Lincolnshire and Rutland, the projected Mallard Pass Solar Farm will span roughly 1,400 football fields.
Developers According to Windel Energy, the farm will contribute to the pressing need to decarbonize the electrical grid.
However, a local action group stated that it should not be built on prime agricultural land.
If permitted, this solar farm will become one of the largest photovoltaic farms in England, generating over 350 MW of renewable energy and powering 92,000 homes, according to the developers.
From top to bottom, the area surrounding the East Coast Train line would span four miles (6.4 kilometers).
Sue Holloway, who heads the action group, stated that the style of previous consultations had been ineffective.
“It has made it quite difficult to comprehend what is occurring,” she said.
“The scope of the proposal is enormous. It is most likely the largest application in the region since Rutland Water.”
She stated that locals might need time to grasp the scheme’s ramifications.
She stated, “Until we see the specifics, we cannot evaluate the impact.”
We continue to feel that it should not be placed upon productive agricultural land.
Windel Energy, which is collaborating with Canadian Energy on the initiative, stated that the comment process would last until August 4th.
The company stated that the project team would provide more detailed ideas for the farm, incorporating feedback from the initial consultation.
It was emphasized that the consultation would include both in-person and online exhibitions, providing the community with opportunities to learn more and provide feedback.
Director of operations Gary Toomey stated: “Our goal is to produce a project that offers dependable and sustainable energy to the national grid while respecting the local ecosystem.
“We are glad to announce the commencement of our Stage Two Mandatory Consultation. We are glad to hear your feedback on our modifications and enhancements.
“I would advise everyone interested in Mallard Pass to make contact and participate.”
The Mallard Pass Solar Farm is a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP).
A Development Consent Order (DCO) application will be filed to the Planning Inspectorate (PINS) later this year in order to obtain approval to construct and operate it.
The Secretary of State for Business, Energy, and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) will then decide whether or not to grant consent.
