Why here?
Finding a suitable site for a renewable energy project is a huge challenge. There are two key factors to consider:
1. Viable proximity to the grid and transmission network, where capacity exists to connect a new generating station
2. Land which is not constrained by planning policy barriers
1. Viable grid connection
South East Wales has a relatively rare combination of existing electricity network infrastructure and spare capacity on the lines to accept new generating stations.
Existing network infrastructure
Electricity infrastructure is predominantly located around areas of population as these are areas that need to be served by electricity. As such, very remote and rural areas like mid-Wales does not have the electricity network required to support new renewable projects.
The transmission network is generally located around the large areas of population in South Wales.
This narrows the area of search. Thereafter, it is necessary to find a transmission line with capacity to accept a generating station.
Capacity to accept new generating stations
The electricity grid in Wales has relatively few locations where there is capacity to accept new renewable energy generators. In South East Wales the local circumstances have created capacity on the transmission network.
The transmission network can be seen on the map.
In this part of SE Wales, there is capacity on the network as a result of the closure of much of its heavy industry over the past 30 years, which had previously drawn huge amounts of power from the grid. It’s closure has left spare capacity.
Furthermore, the closure of Aberthaw coal fired power station in March 2020 has left space for new clean generating stations on the network. Aberthaw had generated 1,560 MW of electricity for South Wales.
2. Consideration for planning policy
The map below shows all areas of ‘absolute planning policy barriers’ to developing ground mounted solar farms, including ancient woodland, built up areas, National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The areas left to consider are in white.
As you can see, there are very few locations that are potentially suitable for a new generating station. The site location is the only location not blocked by planning policy.
Prohibited Solar Development areas in Wales
Why solar?
Climate change poses a threat to Welsh livelihoods and its precious natural environment.
Decarbonising our energy generation is essential, which is why Wales aims to meet 100% of its annual electricity consumption through renewable energy sources by 2035.
The deployment of renewable energy sources like solar is a vital step on the path to tackling climate change.
- they are versatile
- they are easily scalable
- viable to deploy
- they have a very low environmental footprint with scope to deliver local environmental enhancement, with minimal land disturbance and water usage
- benefit from the consistent and abundant energy source of sunlight in South Wales, making them a reliable and cost-effective option for generating clean electricity
Next steps
We are at an early stage in the development of the Future Energy Llanwern solar generating station. In the coming months, we will begin thorough consultation and engagement with local people and stakeholders on our project proposals.
We are committed to engaging with local people and will be considering all of feedback as we develop the project. We have a dedicated community relations team should you have any questions or wish to find out more. Please visit our ‘Get in touch’ page.