A CONSULTATION will get under way on a solar farm close to the M6.
The proposed development would aim to deliver clean, green electricity from a 103-acre site owned by Coventry City Council and currently used for sheep farming and some crop cultivation.
Options to continue farming are being examined and the council said solar farms around the world had successfully combined green energy production with other uses.
The planning application will request permission to develop the site as a solar farm, with photovoltaic panels angled to capture the maximum energy produced by the sun.
The output of green electricity on a summer’s day would equal the power needed for 7,650 homes over a year.
Residents will be able to ask questions at drop-in sessions ahead of the formal consultation when the planning application is submitted.
Coun Jim O’Boyle, cabinet member for jobs, regeneration and climate change, said: “The world is facing a massive battle to address climate change. But it is one we must all rise to.
“This idea of a solar farm fits our climate change ambition, and it will provide reliable and sustainable, clean, green energy while being sensitive to the natural environment.”
He added the idea was not new to Coventry – roof-mounted panels had been installed for years – and the plans went ‘hand-in-hand’ with the council’s other green projects, including Very Light Rail, all-electric buses and installing on-street EV charging points.
“We have solar panels on many of our own buildings ranging from libraries and offices to social care centres and schools,” he said.
“But this is a good next step and one that will see us generate even more clean energy.”
The council will work closely with the tenant farmer and local people to ensure they were involved at every step.
Green Party Coun Stephen Gray said: “I’m glad to see the council is finally starting to take climate change seriously, and this land sounds ideal for a solar farm.
“However, this project is in stark contrast to the way the council has chosen not to support local businesses like Climate Change Solutions Ltd whose solar mapping project is working to increase the number of solar panels on buildings in the city.”
