A new solar farm with a shared community ownership model is set to launch in East Hampshire, offering local residents the chance to invest in renewable energy.
Caker Stream Solar Farm, a project developed by Quintas Cleantech in partnership with community groups Energise South Downs, Energy Alton, and Community Energy South, will be located between Alton, Farringdon, and Selborne.
The developers state that the project is committed to allowing local residents to own up to 10 percent of the solar farm, fostering community engagement in renewable energy while supporting the UK’s net-zero goals.
Catriona Cockburn, chief executive of Energise South Downs, emphasised the importance of community energy in creating a more sustainable and equitable energy system.
She said: “Our vision is a vibrant, green local landscape where clean, community-owned energy is accessible to everyone.
“The community benefits from this project can support local renewable energy initiatives, improve energy efficiency, and help tackle fuel poverty.”
John Hubbard, chairman of Energy Alton, also highlighted the significance of shared ownership.
He said: “Caker Stream Solar Farm is set to be one of the first shared ownership solar projects of this scale in England, and we’re excited to be part of it.
“It will be empowering for local people to have a stake in the solar farm.”
To introduce the project and answer questions from the community, a public consultation event will be held from 3pm to 7pm on Thursday, February 13 at Selborne Village Hall.
Local residents are encouraged to attend and learn more about how they can get involved in the initiative.
The solar farm is designed to generate 44 megawatts of clean electricity, enough to power approximately 15,150 homes annually, while preventing 10,400 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions each year.