BENEFITS

Like all renewable energy projects, the purpose of the solar farm is to transition energy production from fossil fuel-based sources to sustainable sources. Given the need for energy security in the region, the proposal is an important source of new power generation, enhanced further by the battery element of the project, which can deliver this energy more consistently, and when needed.

ENVIRONMENTAL

  • Saves approximately 16,727 tonnes of CO₂ per year.
  • Produces enough power to meet the needs of approximately 12,548 UK homes per annum.
  • Reduces greenhouse gas emissions, assisting the transition towards cleaner electricity generation.
  • Reduces reliance on gas generation to meet peaks in electricity demand.
  • Plays a vital part in reaching the Welsh Government’s climate change target of reducing emissions by 63% by 2030 compared to 1990 levels, with the aim of reaching net zero by 2050.

BIODEVERSITY

  • White House Farm Solar and Storage Facility will provide a significant Biodiversity Net Gain. The biodiversity will be managed by an approved Biodiversity Management Plan.
  • Specific areas have been identified within the development to provide specific biodiversity enhancement measures.

ECOLOGY

  • Detailed ecological surveys are being undertaken in full accordance with industry best practice and legislation. This will include vegetation and tree surveys and assessments for the suitability of the site for protected species such as bats, birds, amphibians and badgers.
  • The results of the surveys will be fully incorporated in the design proposals with appropriate mitigation measures being included to enhance the ecological value of the site.

ENERGY SECURITY AND ECONOMIC BENEFITS

Increase diversification of economic activity within the region.

  • Facilitate opportunities within local job markets, to encourage employment to be kept within the local community as part of the site’s construction, operation and maintenance.
  • Helps address the growing energy gap resulting from closed/redundant power stations.
  • Deliverable from initial design to operational production quicker than any other form of commercial energy, reducing the nation’s reliance on foreign energy supplies in times of need.
  • Energy storage allows excess power generated by solar and wind farms to be stored and used later when needed.
  • Supports the UK Government’s goal of becoming an independent producer of clean, green, homegrown energy and reducing our dependence on outdated fossil fuels. In time, this will have a positive impact on reducing energy prices for end users.