Plans for a sprawling solar farm spanning an area equivalent to 1,700 football pitches have sparked fear and opposition among residents in Anglesey.
The proposed project by Lightsource bp aims to erect solar panels across three sites in northern Anglesey, with an estimated capacity of 350MW. If approved, it would be nearly five times the size of the largest active solar farm in the UK and could power over 130,000 homes.
While developers tout the project as a significant step towards achieving net-zero targets, concerns have been raised regarding its scale and potential impact on the local landscape and agriculture.
The proposed Maen Hir development would encompass sites in Rhosgoch, land south of Llannerch-y-Medd, and the northern bank of Llyn Alaw reservoir. However, some residents worry about the loss of valuable agricultural land and the visual impact on the area.
The project’s magnitude has classified it as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP), meaning final decisions will be made by UK government ministers rather than local authorities.
Residents like William Hughes, who resides near one of the proposed sites, express apprehension about the project’s implications. Hughes, a longtime farmer in the area, voices concerns about the loss of quality agricultural land and potential devaluation of properties due to the solar panels’ glare.
Similar sentiments have been echoed by Amlwch Town Council, which strongly opposes the project, citing the lack of permanent job creation and the disproportionate decision-making authority granted to UK government ministers over local councils.
While Anglesey Council plans to state its position on the proposed development as part of the planning process, a final decision is expected to take years. UK government ministers will weigh the need for renewable energy against local concerns before making a judgment based on recommendations from the Planning Inspectorate.
Despite the ongoing debate, Lightsource bp emphasizes that the project is still in its preliminary stages and invites local residents to participate in consultations to shape its development.