A significant solar farm is proposed near Bodelwyddan and St George, Abergele, which features renewable energy generation and a battery energy storage system. The site — located near Denbighshire and Conwy County boundaries — is within 2km of five Scheduled Monuments, thus merging historical preservation with sustainable energy innovation.
Solar Farm Near Historical Monuments in Wales
Plans are in progress for a major solar farm near Bodelwyddan and St George, Abergele, with the proposed development being of national significance. The project has been submitted for an environmental impact assessment and was announced by the Welsh Government. It aims to generate renewable electricity while incorporating a battery energy storage system (BESS).
The site spans land near Denbighshire and Conwy County Council boundaries. The site is near five scheduled monuments, which include notable historical landmarks. These landmarks are St George’s Well, the First World War Practice Trenches at Bodelwyddan Park, Tyddyn Bleiddyn Burial Chamber, Bedd-y-Cawr Hillfort, and The Mount. These monuments are within a 2km radius of the proposed solar farm. This makes the area a blend of historical significance and modern renewable energy potential.
The solar farm will include various components essential for renewable energy generation and storage. These include solar arrays, inverters, transformers, cabling, substations, and access tracks. Landscaping and ecological enhancement areas will also be part of the project, along with ancillary developments.
The project covers moderate quality agricultural land (grade 3b), with some patches of good quality land (3a). The solar farm will utilize this land to support Wales’ energy goals. It will also complement existing renewable energy projects in the area, including other solar farms and a windfarm substation planned for St Asaph.
Environmental Impact Assessment
Denbighshire County Council has received formal notification from the Welsh Government. The notification is part of the environmental impact assessment scoping process. Both Denbighshire and Conwy County Councils are consulting on the proposal. They have until January 31 to provide feedback on the scoping report.
The proximity to historical landmarks has raised questions about the project’s impact. St George’s Well is 330 meters south of the site, while the First World War Practice Trenches are 450 meters to the north. The developers will need to ensure the monuments are preserved during construction and operation.
Abergele councillor Paul Luckock has expressed his support for the project. He highlighted the importance of balancing local concerns with the need for renewable energy. “My attitude to all of these environmental schemes is that they are positive,” he stated.
Luckock emphasized the broader benefits of such projects. “In principle, I’m supportive of these developments,” he said. “Not just from the environmental point of view but for development in general, we need to generate the economy locally, and if people are going to invest, then I’d welcome it.”
Renewable Energy in Wales
Wales has been at the forefront of renewable energy initiatives. Solar farms, wind farms, and other renewable projects have contributed to reducing the country’s carbon footprint. The proposed solar farm near Bodelwyddan is another step toward achieving Wales’ renewable energy targets.
The combination of solar photovoltaic systems and battery energy storage offers several advantages. It ensures a stable energy supply, even during periods of low sunlight. The project also aligns with global trends in renewable energy, where solar farms play a critical role in sustainable power generation.
The planned solar farm near Bodelwyddan and St George is a significant development for Wales. It combines renewable energy generation with economic and environmental benefits. While the project has received initial support from local leaders, it must address concerns related to historical preservation and land use.
As Wales continues to embrace renewable energy, projects like this solar farm highlight the balance between progress and preservation. The feedback from local councils and stakeholders will shape the future of this ambitious initiative.