Bluefield Renewable Developments has achieved planning permission for four new UK projects providing almost 200 Megawatts (MW) of solar capacity.

The solar farms will generate enough electricity to power over 54,000 homes whilst offsetting approximately 36,800 tonnes of CO2 per annum.

The consented projects include:

• Two 49.9MW projects near Blyth and Bedlington, Northumberland on former coalfields – the first solar farms of this scale in the county,

• A 49.9MW farm near Witney, West Oxfordshire,

• A 45MW farm near Ludlow, in Shropshire.

At each of the newly consented sites, over 95% of the land intended for solar panels is not classified as 'Best and Most Versatile Land', meaning that its agricultural potential for food production is limited. However, Bluefield intends to graze sheep on the land, ensuring a dual use of both food and energy production.

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Once constructed, Bluefield intends to carry out significant Biodiversity enhancements. Large areas at all four sites will benefit from the inclusion of wildflower meadows, rich grasslands and at Tar Farm, Oxfordshire, a newly planted woodland. Further improvements will be made across the sites through strengthening existing, and planting new, hedgerows.

As part of the project at Brick House Farm, in Shropshire, Bluefield has committed to undertake a major new research project on alternative uses of land within solar farms for food production. The outcome of this research will identify potential types of food production within and around solar farms to supplement sheep grazing and complement biodiversity management.

Significant community funds will also be provided for local projects in the vicinity of each solar farm following positive engagement with parish councils and other local organisations.