Sealand: Public consultation set to launch on plans to build huge solar farm by side of River Dee

 

Plans for a huge solar farm and battery energy storage system (BESS) in running alongside the River Dee in Sealand have been unveiled, with developers seeking public feedback on the project before submitting it for approval.

The Sealand Manor Solar Farm & BESS, proposed by Renewable Connections, would generate up to 89MW of renewable energy—enough to power 33,575 homes annually—while the 40MW battery storage system would help balance electricity supply and demand.

The development, which would span 94 hectares of agricultural land, aims to support both Flintshire’s climate goals and the UK’s wider net-zero commitments. It is estimated to save up to 16,902 tonnes of CO₂ emissions per year, contributing to a greener energy grid.

Community Consultation

Before submitting the project to Planning and Environment Decision Wales (PEDW), Renewable Connections is inviting local residents to review the plans and provide feedback.

The informal consultation runs from 14 March to 21 April 2025, with a formal consultation phase planned later this year before an application is submitted to PEDW.

If approved, the solar farm will operate for up to 40 years, after which all installations will be removed and the land restored to agricultural use.

Key features of the proposal include:

Solar panels mounted in rows no more than 3 metres high, facing south for maximum efficiency.

Battery storage units (BESS) to store and release energy when needed, ensuring grid stability.

Hedgerow planting and biodiversity improvements, enhancing habitats for local wildlife.

Potential for sheep grazing beneath the panels, allowing continued agricultural use.

Security fencing and CCTV cameras around the site, focused inward to protect equipment.

Local Impact & Environmental Considerations

The proposed site, located adjacent to the River Dee between the A494 and Sealand Road, currently consists of arable farmland designated as Grade 2 agricultural land.

Although part of Flintshire County Council’s Green Barrier designation, developers Renewable Connections argue that the biodiversity management plan will significantly “will be significantly enhanced for biodiversity by creating a range of new habitats, offering food and shelter to wildlife.”

The project also aligns with the UK’s decarbonisation efforts, with the electricity grid expected to transition to 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) by 2030.

Renewable Connections says local input will play a key role in shaping the final design of the project.

Later in 2025, a formal consultation will take place before submission to PEDW, where planning officers will assess environmental and community considerations.

The company has encouraged residents to engage early in the process to help refine the plans.

Two public exhibition events will be held at The Fig Tree, St Bartholomew’s Church, Sealand:

• Wednesday 26 March, 2pm – 7pm
• Thursday 27 March, 10am – 2pm

For those unable to attend, feedback can be submitted via:
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌍 Online form: Available on Renewable Connections’ website
📮 Freepost: Sealand Manor Solar Farm & BESS, Renewable Connections, Level 4, LDN: W, 3 Noble Street, London, EC2V 7EE