Longhedge, the application filed

Longhedge, a proposed UK solar farm in Rushcliffe is the subject of a planning application by RES.

The RES solar project

Longhedge would have a capacity of 49.9MW. The planning application is under consideration by Rushcliffe Borough Council in England. Its initiator is the British renewable energy developer RES.

The project would generate clean, green electricity for approximately 15,200 homes annually. For Claire Chamberlain, project manager at RES, Longhedge offers speed of deployment and improved security of supply. In addition, it is the cheapest form of new electricity generation, next to onshore and offshore wind.

Claire Chamberlain, project manager at RES, says:

“Solar projects like Longhedge are quick to deploy, generate more energy domestically, improving security of supply and contributing to Net Zero goals. They are also the cheapest form of new electricity generation, alongside onshore and offshore wind. This proposal supports Rushcliffe Borough Council’s goal of being carbon neutral by 2030 and will contribute to the local economy by providing around £164,000 of business rates per year to help fund vital local services.”

RES is active in onshore and offshore wind energy, solar energy, renewable hydrogen and energy storage. In its 40-year history, the company has completed more than 23GW of renewable energy projects worldwide.

Respect for the local environment

Longhedge is undergoing a detailed design process, taking into account input from the local community and stakeholders. In its design, the park integrates the continuation of sheep farming with the production of renewable electricity. In addition, the park also offers recreational benefits through the creation of two bridle paths along the site.

Thus, the inconvenience will be reduced to a minimum for residents in the vicinity of the project. In addition, RES is considering local biodiversity in the design of Longhedge. The company plans to implement a biodiversity management plan to ensure the creation of new habitats for wildlife.

The measures will include tree planting and over 2.5 kilometers of new hedges. In addition, the company wishes to build various animal facilities. These include birdhouses and hedgehog houses.