Large solar farm to power thousands of homes

A large solar farm is being planned to provide energy for thousands of homes in a town in Kent. The Folkestone and Hythe District Council is looking to build this solar facility on agricultural land located in Court-at-Street, Lympne. This solar farm is expected to supply energy to around 8,500 homes that are set to be constructed near the former Folkestone Racecourse, which is close to Sellindge. The planning approval for these homes was granted in 2023, and this development is part of a larger plan to create a total of 10,000 homes in the area. Council leader Jim Martin emphasized that the aim of this project is to 'create a credible pathway to a net-zero development,' which means they want to ensure that the energy used in the new homes is sustainable and environmentally friendly. nnThe solar farm is projected to generate significant revenue for the local council, with estimates suggesting it could bring in £21 million over the next thirty years. This money will be beneficial for the community, as it can be used to fund local services and improvements. Mr. Martin pointed out that one of the advantages of this project is that the solar installation will be developed alongside the housing. He stated, 'There’s no point putting panels in the field when you haven’t got houses to connect them to. ' This indicates that the solar farm will be strategically built to ensure that the energy produced can be directly used by the homes being constructed. nnThe construction of the solar farm will take place in phases. The first phase will cover approximately 47 acres, while the second phase will expand to cover 49 acres. This phased approach allows for careful planning and development, ensuring that the project is completed efficiently. The renewable energy company SNRG will be responsible for operating the solar farm. This initiative is a significant step towards increasing the use of renewable energy in the region and reducing reliance on fossil fuels, which is crucial for combating climate change.