Sandridge Solar Power is seeking planning permission to build a 67-acre solar farm near Melksham in Wiltshire.
If it receives the go-ahead, the company has pledged to establish a community fund to support economic, environmental and social projects. This fund would exist for the 25-year duration of the solar farm and be worth more than £1 million.
St John Hughes, director of Sandridge Solar Power, said: “We believe this is the largest community benefit fund proposal of its type in the country, and we want the neighbouring parish councils to ensure that the funds are used on projects that will deliver a genuine advantage to local residents.”
He added that Sandridge Solar Farm would generate 44MW of electricity — enough to power 11,387 homes. Although three of the four parish councils affected by the proposed solar farm are in favour, the fourth parish council has voted against it.
Duncan Hames, MP for Chippenham, said: “Once complete, it could power all of Melksham with ‘clean’ energy when the sun is shining. The community benefit fund is an attractive way to ensure that the local community benefits as well.”