Developer unveils plan for new West Norfolk solar farm capable of powering more than 6,000 homes
An energy company has today revealed plans to build a large solar farm in the West Norfolk countryside.
Developers claim the project on the Sedgeford Hall estate would generate enough power for more than 6,000 homes, whilst reducing carbon dioxide emissions by more than 10,000 tonnes a year.
And a virtual consultation event is due to take place next week for residents to learn more about the proposal.
The announcement comes just days after councillors approved plans for one of the largest solar farms in the country at Sutton Bridge.
The Sedgeford scheme has been developed by Regener8 Power Limited, a clean energy firm which has its headquarters in Farnham, Surrey.
The development will cover a 44.5 hectare site and the developers say it will generate more than 22,500 megawatt hours of electricity a year, while saving around 10,400 tonnes of annual carbon emissions.
The plan, which the company expects would generate enough power for around 6,275 homes, also includes a battery storage system which is intended to help meet peaks of demand.
Company director Adriano Satta said today: “We believe that the Sedgeford Hall solar farm will help the Borough Council of King’s Lynn and West Norfolk to further reduce its carbon dioxide emissions in line with the UK’s 2050 net-zero target.
"The renewable energy will result in thousands of tonnes less of carbon dioxide being produced every year and contribute to the government’s plans to build back greener after the pandemic.”
Officials say they are conducting community consultations before a formal planning application is submitted to West Norfolk Council in the coming months.
Leaflets about the plan have already been delivered to local residents and a dedicated website has also been set up.
And an online consultation event will take place next Thursday, March 25, from 2pm.
Mr Satta said: “Due to current government guidelines to prevent the spread of Coronavirus, we are not able to meet in person with local residents and businesses as we had hoped.
"However, we are looking forward to the virtual public consultation, which will work in the same manner, allowing local residents to share their views on the project whilst keeping everyone as safe as possible."
Anyone who is interested in attending the event should visit www.sedgefordhallsolar.co.uk/Consultation to complete a registration form.