A solar farm is being considered by West Berkshire Council, with 45,000 solar panels installed on up to 75 acres of land.
This would generate enough electricity to power around 4,400 homes.
The proposal is part of the council’s plans to become carbon neutral by 2030. A feasibility study found a solar farm provides a viable option for clean, green energy which would offset around 30% of its carbon footprint. The figure includes the estimated carbon footprint of key contractors working on our behalf.
Subject to the approval of funding and planning permission being granted work could start on the site in 2022.
Speaking about the plans Councillor Steve Ardagh-Walter, Executive Member for the Environment, said: “Last year we installed solar on some of our buildings and we are now looking to build on this with the possibility of a new solar farm. It could significantly reduce our carbon footprint with any surplus income available to reinvest in other environmental projects. Our Environment Strategy is something we are absolutely committed to, and this new solar farm is a statement of our intent towards achieving a carbon neutral district by 2030.”
