Approval given for the “Silent Neighbor” solar park in Northants

The developer said the solar panels would generate up to 49.9 MW of energy, which would power about 14,500 homes, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

The applicant, Welford Solar Farms, said construction of the project would create 50 jobs and could save up to 11,500 tonnes of carbon per year over its 40-year lifespan.

At a meeting on Tuesday, externalTim Hancock, director of Welford Solar Farms, said: “We recognise, however, that a proposal for a large project in a rural area brings significant changes locally.

“We can only install solar parks where adequate land is available and there is sufficient grid capacity.

“We will help meet the UK’s need to achieve net zero emissions and contribute to energy security and affordability.”

The committee unanimously approved the solar farm subject to certain conditions, including a construction management plan that will limit damage and noise to nearby areas during construction.