Solar application decision expected in October
05/08/2025
The scheme would generate enough power for 15,000 homes, but has local opponents
The final documents have been submitted to enable consideration of a planning application for a solar farm on land to the north of Hanwell.
Elgin Energy wants to locate solar panels on around 74.7 hectares of land at Hanwell Estate.
The proposal has been designed to generate approximately 40 megawatts of electricity – enough to power around 15,000 homes – and saving around 30,000 tonnes of CO2 over more traditional methods of electricity generation each year.
Sheep grazing would continue in the fields around the solar panels.
Elgin Energy say planning permission is sought on a temporary basis for the project’s lifetime of up to 40 years. After that the solar farm would either be decommissioned and the site returned to full agricultural use or a subsequent application submitted to extend its use.
A number of public exhibitions on the proposals were held in 2023. The scheme has been opposed by some local groups, including Keep Hanwell Village Rural.
Cherwell District Council anticipates making a decision on whether permission should be granted in October.
Published: by the Banbury FM News Team
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