The y will explore developing solar farms on reclaimed landfills. Image: West Burton Solar Project.

Devon y Council has received a major funding injection from the UK Government for projects exploring ways to lower the y’s carbon emissions.

A sum of almost £200,000 has been awarded by the South West Net Zero Hub’s Local Net Zero Capacity and Development Fund, and will be split between two local authority projects, both of which will explore the potential of solar in the region.

The first project, which has been granted £97,000, will explore the possibility of developing solar farms on disused landfill sites. Landfill sites, once decommissioned, are covered with a layer of topsoil, but the potential instability of the land limits their future use. However, as solar panel fixings do not require deep burial, Devon y Council will examine the potential for using this land to develop solar farms.

Of this project, Councillor Andrea Davis, Devon y Council cabinet member for climate change, environment and transport, said: “This money will allow us to investigate if these sites can be used to generate clean, green energy and potentially income for the council. We are really excited to be taking forward these kinds of projects, and if they can be delivered it will help us achieve our goal of a net-zero Devon by 2030.

“Solar farms can be designed in such a way that they can complement and enhance biodiversity and we are looking with interest at similar projects currently underway in Plymouth and Torquay.”

Meanwhile, the second project, which was awarded £99,851, will create a decarbonisation plan for the Heathfield Industrial Estate in partnership with Teignbridge District Council. This plan will explore the feasibility of introducing renewable energy options, including solar PV installations, onto the site.

Councillor Jackie Hook, Teignbridge District Council’s lead for climate change, added: “We’re thrilled to have secured funding from the South West Net Zero Hub and the unique opportunity this presents to engage with businesses on Heathfield Industrial Estate. Bringing businesses together through partnership working will play a vital role in accelerating our journey towards net zero emissions and creating a resilient low carbon economy in a way which can be replicated across the South West and nationally. We look forward to collaborating with Devon y Council to make this project a success.”

Landfill solar farms: a er to land use debates?

In recent months, there has been much debate over the use of land for solar farm developments, much of it fuelled by statements made by the former Energy Minister Claire Coutinho. Coutinho argued that land with agricultural potential should not be approved for solar farm development, stirring fears of food insecurity.

Despite her successor, Ed Miliband, speaking out against the misconception that solar farms are a threat to food security, concerns remain.

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