The proposed Fenwick Solar Farm, set to power 75,000 homes with renewable energy, has faced both support and opposition.

While the project aims to help meet the UK’s net-zero targets, Doncaster residents are raising concerns about its environmental impact. 

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband, the local MP for Doncaster North, will not be involved in deciding the outcome, as the decision will be delegated due to his dual role in government.

Boom Power, the company behind the project, highlighted the significance of the solar farm in combating climate change and energy insecurity. 

Fenwick Solar Farm said: “The new government has made clear the scale of the challenge the UK faces in moving towards a net zero future, combating the climate emergency and energy insecurity.”

“If approved, Fenwick Solar Farm will generate enough low-carbon electricity to power around 75,000 homes and help Doncaster meet its climate change priorities.”

However, the plan has met resistance from local residents and action groups. The Fenwick Solar Farm Action Group has raised concerns about biodiversity loss, the reduction of farmland, and changes to the landscape. 

In response, Boom Power has engaged in consultations with local communities, making design changes based on feedback. 

Fenwick Solar Farm said: “Since the project launch, we have been working with local communities. This has included additional buffer zones and environmental mitigations.”

Boom Power is also committed to establishing a community benefit fund if the project is approved; they said: “The terms of this fund will be discussed further with the local community.”

While Miliband did not take a formal stance for or against the proposal, he acknowledged the importance of balancing renewable energy with the concerns of local residents. 

The final decision will be made through a national government process, allowing further scrutiny of the project.

The solar farm would be one of the largest in the UK, covering 536 hectares, and Boom Power is expected to submit its formal application soon.

The formal application will soon be submitted to the government for review by the Planning Inspectorate, allowing further community input during the examination process.

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Photo credit: Wikimedia commons – Lauren Hurley