Green light given to major solar farm in Somerset
Conrad Energy has confirm that planning for a 15.23MW Yeovil solar farm has been approved.
This site is a strategic development for Conrad Energy, one of the UK’s leading flexible energy providers, as they continue to invest in a solar portfolio.
Once fully operational, the site will generate enough energy to power the equivalent of up to 6,500 homes.
The site is being delivered in partnership with helicopter manufacturer Leonardo.
Although there is a carbon footprint associated with solar panels, the lifecycle emissions of solar electricity are around 12 times less than natural gas and 20 times lower than coal.
The 40-year lifespan of the solar farm represents a saving of around 80,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide.
Steven Hardman, Conrad Energy’s CEO said: “The site in Yeovil is an incredibly important business and Conrad Energy’s team is offering a solution to help them move towards their net zero targets, whilst also working to fulfil the aims of the local council.
“Long term partnerships that ensure community engagement and a positive biodiversity impact are integral to the way we work, as the energy transition requires support from all of us. Conrad Energy is thrilled to have secured planning consent and look forward to bringing this solar farm to life for the benefit of the local economy and environment.”
Paul Coombs, VP Leonardo Global Solutions UK Facilities, Real Estate and Projects – Helicopters said: “We will continue to support Somerset Council’s Climate Strategy to become a carbon neutral county by 2030, by exploring new routes through which we can obtain responsible renewable energy sources.
“Leonardo is committed to achieving a near-term Net Zero target for Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2030 to reduce its environmental impact and the use of solar energy from this facility will help us move forward on this important journey.”
Somerset was the first county council in the UK to pass a motion declaring the climate emergency and was ranked the best county council in the UK by Climate Emergency UK in 2022.
