KILN FIELDS, HECKFIELD
UK SOLAR
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Following the consent of planning in July 2022, Enviromena are constructing a 17.9MWp solar farm in Heckfield, Hampshire with energisation planned for early 2024.
PROJECT DETAILS
Annual Energy Yield (MWh)
Tonnes of CO2 saved every year*
Equivalent number of homes powered**
WHAT WAS INVOLVED
The project was identified for solar development by Enviromena’s development team in late-2020 and Enviromena’s expert land acquisition team agreed long-term lease terms with the landowner. An application for grid capacity was submitted to the DNO, SSEN.
After securing grid capacity for the project, planning activities commenced to build the planning package for the site. With part of the site previously utilised for landfill purposes, desktop studies were undertaken with our expert geotechnical specialist. Furthermore, detailed flood risk assessments were undertaken with our drainage consultants to assess potential flooding impacts created by the watercourse which runs through the site. Further engagement and flood modelling activities were undertaken at the request of the Environment Agency prior to the scheme obtaining planning consent.
PLANNING APPROVAL
Engagement with the local community took place virtually via video conference due to restrictions imposed the COVID pandemic and no objections were received from the local parish councils. A leaflet drop was undertaken reaching out to local homes and businesses and their feedback helped to shape the final planning application package which was submitted to Hart District Council in October 2021.
During the planning process the scheme obtained the support of all of the statutory consultees while comments from a small number of residents local to the site were addressed. Unlike a similar scheme a short distance from the site which received over five hundred objections, Enviromena’s collaborative approach to the planning and community engagement processes ensured a smooth path to obtaining planning permission.
The project received a unanimous vote at the planning committee held at Hart District Council Offices in July 2022with committee members strongly outlining their support for this renewable scheme to be deployed at speed.
PROJECT COMPLETED IN WINTER 2023/24
Construction commenced in late-summer 2023 and the project will be completed in the winter of 2023/24.
MANAGEMENT OF THE SITE
Once complete, Enviromena will continue to manage the site under a long-term O&M contract including full performance monitoring, security monitoring, preventive / reactive maintenance and landscape management.
PROJECT TIMELINE
Site identified by Enviromena development team and landowner approached. Grid application submitted to DNO.
Virtual consultation with local parish councils(undertaken virtually due to COVID pandemic) and wider public consultation undertaken. Planning application submitted to Hart District Council.
Project granted planning approval by Hart District Council.
Planned project completion and energisation.
*0.19338 kg per kWh (GOV.UK – 2022)
**2,700kWh per annum – average sized UK home (Ofgem)