Plans for Europe’s largest solar farm, Botley West, are facing major delays after months of scrutiny. The project, valued at €916 million, aims to generate 840 megawatts of clean energy-enough to power 330,000 homes.
Located in Oxfordshire, England, the farm is part of the UK’s 2035 solar capacity goals. However, concerns have emerged from local residents and environmental groups who fear the project could harm biodiversity and disrupt the landscape near Blenheim Palace.
Opposition group Stop Botley West claims the installation may reduce crop yields, increase flood risk, and damage wildlife habitats. Critics also argue the visual impact will be ‘unprecedented’.
Despite these concerns, Photovoltaic Development Partners (PVDP), the developer, maintains that solar energy is key to energy security and carbon reduction. Professor Alex Roger from the University of Oxford counters claims about food production impacts, noting that one percent of the UK is used for golf courses.
UK Energy Secretary Ed Miliband was informed of the planning report in February. Originally due to decide by May 10, the decision has now been pushed back to September 10 to allow for further review.
PVDP has yet to respond to Euronews Earth's request for comment.