19th February 2024
On 26th January 2024, Innova received planning permission for the development of North Preston Solar Park in Somerset.
Once built and energised, the 25MW site will generate enough electricity to power 6,420 homes in the local area per year, whilst saving 5,300 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually.
The 25MW site is also projected to deliver 74% biodiversity net gain for habitats – exceeding the mandatory 10% set out by the government – via additional hedgerow planting and the restoration of an historic pond. The site will also include the installation of a ring walk to enhance the public right of way.
Simon Murrells, Programme Manager at Innova, said:
“We are delighted to have secured planning permission for the North Preston Solar Park in Somerset. The project has no connection delays, and has a construction commencement
target of Q4 2024.
“Early and thorough engagement with the local community saw local supporters expressing their views in favour of the project, which is testament to the hard work of the
project and consultant team.
“As well as producing clean, home-grown electricity, the site includes a raft of other benefits as part of the project design, with significant landscape and ecological enhancements, plus an index-linked community and charitable benefit fund worth over £350k over the lifetime.
“We look forward to commencing the build and bringing this project through to energisation.”
Innova would like to take this opportunity to thank Somerset Council for their balanced and considered decision in respect to all aspects of the site, members of the local community who supported the application, the landowner for their contribution of local knowledge and allowing the site to be used for a permissive footpath, and our Planning Consultant Engena for their expertise in support of the planning application.
Download the press release