Annfield
Solar Farm
Introducing Annfield Solar Farm
Solarig is proposing to develop a solar farm on land north of Perth Lane and west of Edge Lane at Moor Leaze Farm, Lanchester, Durham, DH7 0EF.
The solar farm would have an approximate capacity of 49.9MW. The proposed development would create enough renewable energy to meet the annual electricity needs of 17,000 homes while also offsetting 10,388 tonnes of CO2 each year, the equivalent of taking around 3,330 cars off the road.
The project is at an early stage, and we would like your views on the development proposals.
Where is the proposed solar farm?
The development site is located between the villages of Lanchester to the west, Burnhope to the east and Maiden Law to the north. The closest town is Stanley 2.9 miles (4.7km) to the north east of Annfield. The site itself it bordered by the roads of Peth Lane
to the south, Edge Lane to the east and the A691 across fields to the west. The setting is mostly rural; however, a large industrial park is located to the north of the site, adjacent to an existing Solar Farm.
The site covers approximately 112 hectares and
is currently a combination of arable and grazing farmland, with a large farm in the centre. National Grid infrastructure 0.8 miles to the north of the site means power can be exported to the network with minimal additional infrastructure.
Alongside the solar farm, the site will lead to a biodiversity net gain through measures such as sheep grazing once the solar panels are operational. The site is situated on grade 4 agricultural land (Poor Quality Agricultural Land). The proposals will provide a 40-year period in which the farmland can ‘rest’ (be kept pesticide and chemical free).
Benefits
The solar farm would support the UK’s transition to a low carbon future, hitting its target of cutting carbon emissions by 78% by 2035.
It will assist Durham County Council in meeting its pledge to become a carbon neutral authority by 2050.
It will continue to be grazed by sheep once operational, remaining in agricultural use.
This is a temporary development, allowing the land to rest for the period of operation up to 40 years.
It will include a scheme of landscape and ecological improvements to ensure the project provides a biodiversity net gain.
It will reduce greenhouse gas emissions in line with local, national and international targets.
The proposed solar farm will not require any government subsidies.
A community benefit will be established which will directly benefit local residents.
Public rights of way shall remain open throughout the construction and operation of the project.
The proposed solar farm is situated on Grade 4 agricultural land (Poor Quality Agricultural Land). Besides making use of poor-quality land, the solar farm will ensure that the land is kept pesticide and chemical free for the period of operation. This will improve soil quality and enable species to thrive.
Thank you to everyone who attended our public consultation event
Community Benefit
Climate Emergency
We hope to set up a community benefit fund which will be invested in suitable community projects directly benefitting local residents.
If you have an idea for a sustainable community-based scheme or project, then please share your idea with us through our feedback form or online form found on our website.
This project is subject to local business rates and will generate significant income for Durham County Council which will help fund local services.
In February 2019, Durham County Council declared a Climate Emergency. The Council’s ambition is to cut carbon emissions by 60% by 2030 and to become carbon neutral by 2050.
In their Climate Emergency Action Plan report, Durham County Council states that “renewable energy generation must be increased to meet increasing electrical heat and transport demand.”
Solarig has become a leading figure in the world of solar energy, excelling in the development, construction, and management of photovoltaic solar plants. With over 15 years of experience under their belt, they have proven their ability to produce clean energy in a secure manner.
The company has made a significant impact on the renewable energy market, with a presence in 16 countries spanning 4 continents. Solarig is deeply committed to innovation, always seeking out new and imaginative solutions to the challenges that arise in the industry.
At the heart of Solarig’s mission is their passion for the environment and their desire to make a positive impact on the world. By bringing together their commitment to the environment with their drive for innovation, they believe they can help create a better future for generations to come
Contact Us
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Any information provided will only be used for the purpose of the planning application to the Local Planning Authority and will not be disclosed with any third parties.