UK build largest solar farm in Hampshire

The production process adopted recycling initiatives as well as wildlife and agricultural preservation to reinforce Primrose Solar’s green credentials.

The 48MW Southwick Estate Solar Farm near Fareham, Hampshire is considered a Grade 4 agricultural land unsuitable for growing crops.

In recent months some ministers have criticised the solar farm sector for the large solar developments on agricultural land that could lead to reduced food production.

However, developers have argued that solar farms are usually constructed on poor agricultural land and co-located with livestock and habitats that are suitable for wildlife. 

During the solar farms construction Primrose Solar used solar-powered and biodiesel generators to reinforce their green credentials.

Recycling methods to process food and canteen waste, alongside composting toilets, a car-sharing scheme, and a hydrogen fuel cell-powered CCTV system were introduced during the production of the solar farm.

Primrose is also developing a habitat management plan for the site which includes sowing wildflowers to encourage bees and other pollinators, enhancing hedgerows, trees and ponds, while beehives and bat boxes will be installed next month.

The company also possess a 41MW site at Canworthy Water in Cornwall among the 10 solar farms in its portfolio, of which 156MW is now operating with a further 28MW under construction.

In recognition to the companies that worked for the project, the Chief Executive at Primrose Solar, Giles Clark said: "We're delighted to have completed the Southwick Solar Farm on schedule and I'd like to thank Solarcentury, SSE and DNO Consulting for their professionalism and for their commitment to getting the job done".

Warnings pursue the expected changes to the financial assistance strategies could cause a severe drop in solar farm development next month, therefore developers are under pressure to complete current solar projects before the end of the month.