Rayleigh SolarFarm gets green light for construction

Aura Power has secured planning permission for Essex solar farm near Rayleigh following a hearing in February 2024. The Rayleigh SolarFarm, with a 30 MW export capacity, had been previously rejected by Rochford District Council’s Development Committee in June 2023, despite Planning Officers’ approval recommendation, citing harm to the Green Belt. Soon after, the Council declared a Climate and Ecological Emergency, aiming for net zero by 2030. Rochford Climate Action Plan targets 100 MW of renewable energy by 2030, with Rayleigh SolarFarm contributing 50%. The Inspector granted approval, citing the proposal’s significant contribution to cutting emissions, energy security, and biodiversity enhancement. Aura Power’s appeal, aided by Turley, included a £12,000 annual community benefit fund. It also secured £10 million from Novuna Business Finance for its 12 GW global development pipeline.