Residents in Norfolk are up in arms over plans to build a 2,700-acre solar farm with a £1billion price tag. The East Pye scheme, earmarked for land near Long Stratton, would generate power for 115,000 homes, according to developer Island Green Power.
Its rural location and significant cost, making it one of the priciest solar farms in the UK, have attracted major backlash.
Campaigners voice concerns
David Hook, chairman of nearby Hempnall parish council, described the £1billion figure as "astronomical". "It's going to have to be covered by someone, somehow, somewhere," he told the BBC.
Elsje Stocker, chair of Saxlingham Nethergate, also close to the site, added: "It's going to become a blight on the countryside that people don't want to come to. Why would you walk through solar panels?"
Decision and impact
Due to its scale, the project will be approved or rejected not by council officials but Energy Secretary Miatta Fahnbulleh. The Block East Pye Solar campaign argues that it will incur the loss of high-quality agricultural land, impact protected species and amount to the "industrialisation of countryside".
Island Green Power, owned by Australia-based Macquarie Asset Management, said it would cover the £1billion cost with funds from private investors. It has also insisted that the project will help the UK meet net zero targets and cut carbon emissions.
A spokesperson added: "Solar energy is among the cheapest power produced in Great Britain, supporting the aim of reducing bills for homes and businesses."
