Renewable Connections’ 22.5MW Deepmore Project Approved in Staffordshire, England
Renewable Connections’ Deepmore Solar Farm Approved by South Staffordshire Council
The South Staffordshire Council in England has approved Renewable Connections’ Deepmore Solar Farm, which will supply about 8,000 homes with clean, green energy. According to the developer, there are a number of benefits for landscape, ecology, and biodiversity associated with the 22.5MW project, in addition to a community benefit fund exceeding £45,000.
Benefits and Community Engagement
After conducting in-depth community and statutory consultee consultation, Renewable Connections submitted the application to the Council in October 2023. Following a recommendation for approval made on July 16, 2024, by planning officers of South Staffordshire Council, Deepmore Solar Farm was approved.
“Deepmore Solar Farm has been well-received within the local community and we were delighted with the positive feedback during the comprehensive consultation process,” stated Philip Hale, chief operations officer at Renewable Connections. South Staffordshire Council has been praised as a net zero leader and has cut its carbon emissions by 43% since declaring a climate change emergency in 2019. The approval of this project demonstrates the Council’s continued dedication to this crucial issue and will provide nearly 8,000 homes with carbon neutral renewable energy.”
Landscape, Ecological, and Biodiversity Improvements
A wide range of landscape, ecological, and biodiversity benefits are possible with the solar farm’s design, including more wildflower planting, more species-rich grassland availability, planting hedgerows to support screening, and ecological improvements.
Community Benefit Fund
The parish councils of Brewood and Coven will receive a community benefit fund of £2,000 per MW installed on the property upon the solar farm’s energization. It has also been confirmed that an additional £2,000 per year (index-linked) will be donated to the Staffordshire Wildlife Trust and an additional £1,000 per year (index-linked) will be donated to a nearby registered charity.
Project Timeline
The solar farm is anticipated to start construction in 2025.
