- The UK government has approved a £600 million solar farm project spanning 2,500 acres across Cambridgeshire and Suffolk, despite strong local opposition.
- Sunnica, the developers, anticipate the solar farm will generate enough clean energy to power 172,000 homes, contributing significantly to renewable energy goals.
- The decision, delayed by political factors including the general election, underscores the government’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2030 through large-scale renewable energy projects.
Bold Solar Farm Approved Despite Local Opposition – Britain’s Largest at 2,500 Acres
Plans for a £600 million solar farm spanning 2,500 acres on the Cambridgeshire-Suffolk border have been greenlit by the Secretary of State for Energy.
Developers, Sunnica, faced fierce local opposition but argue the farm will power 172,000 homes with clean energy.
The solar farm will span four sites, including locations near Mildenhall, West Row, Freckenham, Worlington, and East Cambridgeshire.
The decision, according to ITV, delayed due to the UK general election among other factors, marks a pivotal move towards renewable energy goals.
Ed Miliband, the new Energy Security Secretary, stressed solar power’s crucial role in achieving net-zero emissions by 2030.
Cllr Jim Thorndyke, Cabinet Member for Planning at West Suffolk Council, expressed disappointment, citing concerns raised by local communities and councils.
“We will now move forward towards the implementation phase, ultimately allowing us to create clean renewable energy for the UK, and look forward to meeting with local authorities and the wider community to plan the next steps,” Thorndyke said, noting objections to the scale and location of the project.
In response, Sunnica expressed delight at the decision, highlighting the farm’s national importance in meeting emission targets and ensuring energy security.
The company emphasized their readiness to collaborate with local authorities and communities to advance clean energy initiatives.