Statkraft announces community consultation events for Alleston Solar Farm

Local communities in Pembrokeshire are being invited to find out about proposals for Alleston Solar Farm and share their thoughts on the emerging plans at community consultation events to be held in late November.

The proposed solar farm, to be located between Lamphey and Pembroke, would have an installed generating capacity of up to 49MW. It is being developed by Statkraft, Europe’s largest generator of renewable energy and has the potential to produce clean electricity equivalent to the needs of around 15,000 homes.

Feedback from this early engagement, along with the results of a range of site investigations and surveys, will help Statkraft refine the proposals, which will be shared during the statutory consultation next year. The project team are also looking for feedback on biodiversity improvements for the site and ideas for how Statkraft can maximise Alleston Solar Farm’s benefits for the local community.

Statkraft has been making clean energy possible since 1895, with a reputation of leadership in renewables, and a strong track record of engaging with local communities to deliver projects that have long term value. The company works to maximise opportunities for local suppliers to be involved during the construction and operation phases. 

As the solar farm will have an installed generating capacity of up to 49MW of electricity it is defined as a Development of National Significance (DNS). This means the planning application will be submitted to Planning Environment Decisions Wales (PEDW) and considered by an Inspector, with the final decision made by Welsh Ministers. 

Based on the current timeline, Statkraft plans to hold statutory consultations on detailed proposal for Alleston Solar Farm in Spring 2024 and submit the planning application to PEDW in Summer 2024.

Charlotte Healey, Statkraft’s Head of Solar, said: “We’re at an early stage in the project, and want to share our initial proposals with the local community and hear what they think. I would encourage all residents to come along to one of the events we’re holding and chat with myself and the team. This will help us shape and develop the plans, and also explore options to maximise the opportunities and benefits it will bring.”

Those interested in finding out more can attend one of the community events from 2pm-7pm on Wednesday 29th November at Lamphey Jubilee Hall and 10am to 2pm on Thursday 30th November at Pennar Hall in Pembroke Dock.

A newsletter has been sent to around 1,500 homes and stakeholders in the local area with further details on the project and early engagement.  More information can be found on the project website: www.alleston-solar.co.uk