EDF Renewables UK has found that Lincolnshire residents favour solar farms like the proposed 800MW Springwell Solar Farm nationally significant infrastructure project (NSIP).
The consultation for the project, which is expected to have an undisclosed amount of co-located energy storage, began on 11 December 2023 and closed on 11 January 2024. The second stage consultation took place between 11 January and 22 February.
EDF Renewables UK disclosed that 77% of people who responded to a survey by Survation conducted on behalf of the organisation see climate change affecting their communities. 82% of people also said they support the development of solar farms.
Due to being identified as an NSIP, the Springwell project must submit a development consent order (DCO) application. As part of this process, the National Planning Inspectorate will examine and recommend whether to approve or reject the development, with the Secretary of State having the final say.
EDF Renewables UK confirmed that a DCO application for the solar NSIP will be submitted later this year. A grid connection has already been secured from the National Grid.
Matthew Boulton, director of solar, storage and private wire at EDF Renewables UK, said: “We know that people in Lincolnshire are concerned about climate change, and projects like Springwell are an important part of the solution.
“If consented, Springwell would significantly contribute to our country’s future energy supply and security. We would like to thank everyone who took the time to share their views with us earlier this year. We are pleased to have received over 200 responses from the community, which will help us refine our proposals before submitting a planning application.”
