Yeovil solar farm receives planning approval

Planning approval has been granted for a new 15.23 MW solar farm in Yeovil, Somerset. 

The solar farm, a collaboration between Conrad Energy and Leonardo, is projected to produce enough electricity to support up to 6,500 homes. The panels on the site are also expected to last more than 40 years, contributing to a reduction of approximately 80,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide, a substantial decrease when compared to emissions from natural gas and coal.

Steven Hardman, CEO of Conrad Energy, commented on the project, stating, “The Leonardo site in Yeovil is an incredibly important business and Conrad Energy’s team is offering a solution to help them move towards their net zero targets, whilst also working to fulfil the aims of the local council. Long term partnerships that ensure community engagement and a positive biodiversity impact are integral to the way we work, as the energy transition requires support from all of us. Conrad Energy is thrilled to have secured planning consent and look forward to bringing this solar farm to life for the benefit of the local economy and environment.”

Paul Coombs, VP Leonardo Global Solutions UK Facilities, Real Estate and Projects – Helicopters, shared his perspective: “We will continue to support Somerset Council’s Climate Strategy to become a carbon neutral county by 2030, by exploring new routes through which we can obtain responsible renewable energy sources. Leonardo is committed to achieving a near-term Net Zero target for Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2030 to reduce its environmental impact and the use of solar energy from this facility will help us move forward on this important journey.”

Somerset was the first county council in the UK to declare a climate emergency. In 2022, it was named the top county council in the UK by Climate Emergency UK, partly due to its effective strategies in energy generation decarbonisation. The Yeovil solar farm aligns with Somerset's ongoing efforts and commitment to reduce its carbon footprint and transition towards sustainable energy solutions.