Lime Down Solar Park is a new utility-scale solar and battery energy storage facility proposed to be built near the major electricity grid interchange in North Wiltshire. It would make a very significant and rapid contribution to the cheap low-carbon energy needed to power Wiltshire homes. Given the need for rapid decarbonisation in the face of climate tipping points that are already looming, and increasingly high and volatile gas prices, it is very important to consider this scheme seriously.
Wiltshire is generally more suitable for solar than wind, as turbines are best placed in the windiest places near the coast and in northern areas of the UK. Some large scale solar farms in sunny places and storage within reach of grid connections are urgently needed across the country to help reduce the damage being done by burning fossil fuels.
WCA is setting out the case for wind and solar farms in general and addressing some of the myths surrounding this proposal.
WCA has a new leaflet (2nd Feb 2025) with some factual information about solar farms such as Lime Down.
There is a second consultation on the project running until 19th March 2025. These suggestions have been prepared to help if you want to respond positively.
There is further information and a list of in-person events listed on the consultation page.
Here is an assessment by an independent councillor on the need for the project.