The Energy Secretary has set out clearly today how policy on large solar developments is to be applied to re-establish balance and ensure that our energy security must not come at the expense of our food security. This is very important news for those affected by the four large-scale applications in the Sleaford and North Hykeham constituency.
Much of what constituents told me in my recent survey and the points I have been raising about this issue in Parliament have been taken on board. This includes:
- The importance of our food security
- The avoidance of cumulative impact, and the particular importance of this for Lincolnshire, where several proposals have come forward in the same locality
- Strong presumption against BMV land
- Ensuring all soil surveys are by certified surveyors
- Supporting solar on rooftops and brownfield sites
I am pleased that the Government, who will decide these applications, has been clear they will only allow projects to use BMV land where absolutely necessary and will consider cumulative impact too. I am very hopeful that these protections confirmed today will prevent the development of giant solar plants across our beautiful part of the world.
In the longer term, I would like to see legislation develop further, however, I recognise that requires a lengthy consultation and then a long process through Parliament. I will keep working in this regard.
You can read the Energy Secretary's statement in full here: https://questions-statements.parliament.uk/.../hcws466
