A major new solar farm extending to 42 hectares could be developed at Shap — capable of powering 9,600 homes.
A Bristol-based energy company has submitted a 31-page report and requested an opinion from planners at Westmorland and Furness Council.
It could be the first step towards a solar farm and a battery energy storage system.
It is proposed for land north and south of Trainriggs, which is east of the southbound side of the M6, and off the road to Crosby Ravensworth.
The proposal is called the Yoredales Solar Farm with Hardendale described as 560m southeast and Shap village 1km to the west.
ABEI Energy Green says it could take 30 weeks to construct. It would also require two-metre high deer proof fencing and an infra-red motion sensor CCTV security system for round-the-clock surveillance.
A report submitted by the applicant stated: “The proposed development involves the generation of renewable energy and would make a positive contribution towards reducing carbon emissions while contributing to the local community and economy.”
The proposed site is currently low-quality agricultural land and sheep grazing will continue, according to the report submitted to planners. The application number is 23/0759
