Plans for a substantial solar farm in Wrexham, covering an area the size of nearly 170 football pitches, are expected to be submitted next month. Lightsource bp, a leading solar energy developer, intends to construct solar panels on the Plas Power Estate, located off Ruthin Road. The project aims to generate enough electricity to power almost 23,000 homes.
The proposed facility will have a capacity of 57MW and will extend over more than 330 acres, stretching from just outside Coedpoeth to near Bersham, primarily over agricultural land. The company estimates that this solar and energy storage project will help reduce carbon emissions by 15,800 tonnes annually, equating to the removal of 10,800 cars from the roads each year.
The details of the proposal are included in a report to Wrexham Council’s planning committee, which indicates that a formal application is anticipated in early June. Given the magnitude of the development, the final decision will be made by the Welsh Government.
As part of its community support initiatives, Lightsource bp has pledged a fund of £1,000 per MW capacity, totalling £57,000, to be distributed between Coedpoeth and Esclusham community councils. Additionally, the company has committed £400,000 for local community projects.
In a communication to residents, the company outlined the benefits of the project, stating that it will provide a source of locally-produced renewable energy. This, they explained, will help reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels, lower carbon emissions, and ultimately reduce energy bills due to the cost-effectiveness of solar power.
The company also emphasized their commitment to designing and developing projects that support rural businesses and protect the local environment. They stressed their dedication to working closely with host communities to maximize benefits and minimize any negative impacts.
The report to the planning committee notes that the application will be classified as a “development of national significance” under Welsh Government regulations. As such, it will be evaluated by Planning and Environment Decisions Wales, where an inspector will review all submissions.
The chief planning officer explained the process, stating that the appointed inspector will consider submissions from the applicant, statutory and technical consultees, and other interested parties, as well as a local impact report prepared by the local planning authority. Based on these evaluations, the inspector will then make a recommendation to the Welsh ministers on whether to grant planning permission.
The planning committee members are being asked to delegate authority to the chief planning officer to prepare and submit the local impact report once the proposals are formally submitted. This delegation will not prevent elected members from making their own representations on the scheme.
The planning committee is scheduled to convene on Monday, 3rd June 2024, to discuss the report and the upcoming application.
As the renewable energy sector continues to grow, projects like the Plas Power Solar and Energy Storage Project highlight the increasing importance of sustainable energy solutions in addressing climate change and enhancing energy security. If approved, this solar farm will represent a significant advancement in Wales’ commitment to renewable energy and carbon reduction goals.
The forthcoming deliberations and decisions by the Welsh Government will be pivotal in determining the future of this major renewable energy project. The outcome will not only affect the local community but also set a benchmark for future large-scale renewable energy developments in Wales and beyond.
