Photovolt Development Partners has officially submitted its plans to the Planning Inspectorate for an 840 MW solar farm in Oxfordshire. Known as the Botley West project, this £800 million initiative would be the UK's largest solar farm, capable of powering approximately 330,000 homes—the equivalent of all households in Oxfordshire.
The project aligns with Oxfordshire's declaration of a climate emergency in 2019 and is expected to significantly reduce carbon intensity in a county with one of the UK's most carbon-intensive grids. It also aims to enhance local biodiversity, create jobs, and introduce grazing areas on land previously used for intensive farming.
Public First research highlights strong local and national support for renewable energy projects. Around 66% of Oxfordshire residents are in favor of a solar farm within three miles of their homes, and 82% of Britons back the expansion of green energy infrastructure.
Photovolt Director Mark Owen-Lloyd emphasized the project's role in advancing the UK's Net Zero goals, stating:
“We are pleased formally to complete the submission of our plans for Botley West, which will make a huge contribution towards achieving Net Zero in the UK. This project will help equip Britain to mitigate the impact of devastating climate change.”
The design incorporates feedback from extensive community consultations and environmental studies. Commitments include a 70% biodiversity net gain through planting new hedgerows, protecting ancient woodlands, establishing grazing pastures, and introducing new walking paths.
The Planning Inspectorate will now appoint an examining authority to review the application under the Planning Act 2008. If approved, the Botley West project promises significant environmental, economic, and community benefits for Oxfordshire.
