Plans for a new solar energy and battery storage facility in Essex have moved forward. The Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero has granted development consent for Longfield Solar Farm, in Chelmsford.
Longfield Solar Energy Limited (LSE) will give us £2.1 million in education, supply chain, skills and employment funding. Training and apprenticeships in the renewables sector will received £50,000 a year.
Essex’s voluntary sector will also benefit from a £5.72m community benefit fund. We'll work with Essex Community Foundation (ECF) and LSE to manage the fund of £130,000 a year.
The project is one of 11 Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs) proposed in Essex. NSIPs are central to support economic growth, infrastructure, skills and innovation as the UK transitions to net zero by 2050.
Longfield Solar Farm will also play a role in reaching Essex’s own net zero ambitions. Enhancing biodiversity and green infrastructure are also key objectives of the project.
We will ensure the local impacts of NSIPs are fully considered by government. We will also work to maximise benefits to the economy, environment and communities.