A renewable energy firm has recently disclosed plans to erect a new solar farm situated less than two miles from Lincoln city. The proposed site is farmland on Fen Lane near South Carlton, just to the north of Lincoln. The project’s infrastructure is predicted to generate enough power for 17,100 households, thus averting the emission of close to 10,000 tonnes of CO2 each year, as per the project’s website. The firm behind the project, Enviromena, is planning to apply for temporary permission for the installation to remain for 40 years. The proposed South Carlton Solar Farm, as depicted in the company’s provided layout, would span across six variously sized fields. The emergence of this project prompted the 7000 Acres campaign group, known for opposing solar farms in Lincolnshire, to exclaim: ‘They just keep arriving!’ The fate of this smaller energy venture will be determined by the West Lindsey District Council rather than the national government. While no official plans have been submitted yet, the company is expected to engage with the local community for consultations to shape their proposals. The project, according to the website, aligns with the West Lindsey District Council’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in response to the climate emergency, and will contribute to the nation’s green recovery by creating business opportunities and boosting economic activity. The company has pledged to hire local suppliers and contractors for the construction and long-term operation of the project. Construction traffic for the project will be routed along the A46 bypass, through Lincoln to Burton Road, and then onto Fen Lane in South Carlton. There are no planned alterations to public rights of way around the site, and the developer has assured that the project will not pave the way for future housing plans on the site. In related news, plans have surfaced this week for a 42MW solar farm near Sleaford, with the capacity to power 23,000 homes. This farm, located near Burton Pedwardine, will be adjacent to two existing solar farms. Multiple other ‘nationally significant’ solar projects are under different stages of development across Lincolnshire, with decisions for some anticipated later this year.
This story was adapted by The Lincoln Post from original reporting by www.lincolnshirelive.co.uk.
