Varley Solar Farm: A Step Towards Britain’s Net Zero Target

RES recently submitted a planning application for its 25 MW Varley Solar Farm, located southeast of Cromhall, South Gloucestershire. Taking into account public feedback and surveys conducted, the design has been modified to better fit with the landscape and neighbourly environment while also providing efficient electricity generation.These updates include in-plant construction occurring away from residential properties and taller hedgerows to reduce visibility. Furthermore, RES addressed potential concerns over truck traffic impacts by conducting a complete review of available routes and presented solutions designed to minimize any adverse effects.Upon approval from South Gloucestershire Council’s Planning Committee, the solar farm will have the capacity to produce approximately 9700 homes‘ worth of green energy a year, as well as contributing £80,000 annually in business taxes for local services. Bertrand Devossel of RES commented that “Varley is an ideal location for this project due to its considerable solar ray exposure and close proximity to viable grid connection. He went on to underline the importance of initiatives like these in order to meet Britain’s net zero target by 2050.

Summary

• RES has submitted a planning application for its 25MW Varley solar farm.
• The design process considered feedback from a public exhibition and detailed technical and environmental surveys.
• If consented, the project would be capable of producing clean, green electricity for approximately 9700 homes every year.

What changes have been made to the design of the Varley Solar Farm to ensure it fits sensitively into the existing landscape?

Changes made to the design of the Varley Solar Farm to ensure it fits sensitively into the existing landscape include siting infrastructure further away from residential properties, increasing the hedgerow height in areas, and a comprehensive review of all potential access routes to minimise any potential impact on the local road network.

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Picture source: Ivana Cajina