Concerns grow over UK’s biggest proposed solar farm

Farmers have voiced concerns after plans emerged for what could become the UK’s largest solar farm on agricultural land in eastern Scotland.

Aukera, a global renewables developer, proposes a 500MW solar farm located between Errol, Inchture, and Rait on the Carse of Gowrie, situated between Perth and Dundee.

The Halfway Energy Park would also include a 100MW battery energy storage system, a substation, underground cabling, security fencing and CCTV.

See also: How new energy bill puts more pressure on rural land

If given the go-ahead, it would dwarf other solar projects already in operation, such as the 373MW Cleve Hill scheme in Kent, by about 34%.

Planning consent

The project is at an early stage, with a scoping request submitted to the Scottish government’s energy consents unit ahead of any formal planning application. A public consultation is expected to follow.

If submitted, the application would be determined by the Scottish government because the proposed generating capacity exceeds 50MW.

Perth and Kinross Council, along with Dundee, Angus and Fife councils, would be consulted, while an objection from Perth and Kinross Council would trigger a public local inquiry.

A Scottish government spokesman said: “All applications are subject to consultation and are considered on a case-by-case basis. Any environmental impacts, including cumulative impacts, are assessed and carefully considered before a determination is made.”

Protecting farmland

NFU Scotland said it supports renewable energy in principle, but warned that productive farmland must not be sacrificed. 

“Scotland’s farmland is a finite national asset and its value to food production, rural communities and the wider economy should not be underestimated,” said Lorna Scott, NFU Scotland senior policy manager.

The union said decisions on developments of this scale must balance climate ambitions with food security, the needs of rural communities and the long-term sustainability of agricultural land.

“Our position has consistently been one of qualified support rather than outright opposition to renewable energy developments,” she added.

The union acknowledged that solar projects can help Scotland achieve its net zero targets while providing an additional income stream for some farm businesses.

However, it stressed that support depends on schemes not reducing the country’s food production capacity or threatening the long-term viability of agricultural businesses.

“Protecting Scotland’s capacity to produce food must remain a key consideration in any development proposal,” said Ms Scott.

Aukera has been approached for comment.