Plans for a new solar farm in south Cumbria that could supply renewable energy to 6,000 homes have been put forward. Noventum Power Ltd, based in London, has applied to Westmorland and Furness Council for permission to build the facility on a 19.3-hectare plot near Askam.
The proposed Bleabeck Solar Farm would have a capacity of 10MW and is intended to be in operation for 40 years, situated to the north of the existing Roanhead Solar Farm. According to the plans, the solar farm would be able to generate enough renewable energy for 6,000 homes annually.
The planning statement elucidates: "The proposal would provide a clean, renewable and sustainable form of electricity and it would make a valuable contribution to the generation of electricity at a local level.
"The scheme would make a meaningful contribution to the Council's ambitious 2037 carbon zero target and it would also assist in meeting national targets.
"In addition, the proposal would make a valuable contribution to offsetting greenhouse gas emissions and help tackle climate change.
"These are important wider environmental benefits that should be given significant weight in the overall planning balance."
The development, as outlined, will include an array of ground mounted solar photovoltaic (PV) panels, access tracks, underground cabling, fencing, CCTV security, compounds, inverters, substations, and other essential grid-related infrastructure.
Throughout the six-month construction phase, it is expected that there will be around 162 heavy goods vehicle (HGV) deliveries to the site. These would occur during construction hours but would avoid peak traffic periods along Lots Road.
This planning application is currently under public consultation.
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