Flintshire: UK’s largest community-owned solar farm gets green light from Welsh Government

In a significant move for renewable energy in the UK, Julie James, the Welsh Government’s Minister for Climate Change, has approved the development of a 15MW solar farm between Saltney and Broughton.

This sanction allows for the unification of the Welsh and English halves of the site, creating a combined 30MW solar farm.

The project, led by YnNi Newydd, a community benefit society, is set to be the largest community-owned solar farm in the UK.

Local residents and organisations will have the opportunity to become shareholders and part-owners of the farm, earning interest on their shares.

Profits, expected to be in the millions over the farm’s operational lifespan, are earmarked for funding local community benefit projects.

The 120-acre site, half located in Flintshire and the other in Cheshire – the latter consented earlier this year – is primarily grazing land prone to occasional flooding.

Separate planning applications were necessary for each side of the Welsh/English border, along with comprehensive environmental impact assessments.

In Wales, the project was designated as a Development of National Significance, with particular attention paid to its Green Belt location.

The planning inspector, recognising the project’s alignment with the Well-Being of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015, highlighted its contribution to addressing the climate and nature emergency.

This decision reflects a commitment to sustainable development principles and the urgent response to environmental challenges.

Next Steps for YnNi Newydd

With the planning approvals in place, YnNi Newydd is finalizing its plans and securing investment for the first phase of construction, anticipated to begin in 2025.

The society’s volunteer board, comprising representatives from both sides of the border, expressed gratitude for public support, government advice, and the contributions of various consultants and funding bodies.

These include grants from the Welsh Government Energy Service, the UK Government’s Rural Community Energy Fund, and loans from the Development Bank for Wales and the Robert Owen Community Bank.

Leanne Wood and Ben Ferguson, Co-chief Executive Officers of Community Energy Wales, expressed delight over the project’s approval.

They emphasised the project’s potential to deliver sustainable benefits to the local community and its significance for the wider community energy sector in the UK. Community Energy Wales is set to assist YnNi Newydd and partners in bringing this project to fruition.