Plans have been submitted for a huge solar farm that would swamp the village of Bishton in the Gwent Levels. The proposal, presented by JBM Solar owned by German energy company RWE, has been approved by Planning and Environment Decisions Wales (PEDW) and is now under consultation. This solar farm project aims to cover over 500 acres in Bishton by placing solar panels to the east and west of the village, with the panels positioned within close proximity to homes.
The chosen location in Bishton was strategic, as it offers easy connection to the National Grid through existing pylons in the region’s landscape. This aligns with the Welsh Government’s 2030 climate targets and takes advantage of surplus grid capacity resulting from the decline of the nearby steelworks at Llanwern. The area’s flat terrain and ample sunlight make it an ideal spot for a profitable solar farm. Similar developments are also being proposed in other nearby areas like Magor Marsh, Redwick, and Wentlooge, some of which overlap with the Llandenny and Redwick Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
Local residents in Bishton are expressing concerns over the planned solar farm, with many erecting banners around their homes in protest. The community, consisting of approximately 70 households, argues that the village’s rich ecological heritage and protected status make it an unsuitable location for such a large-scale project. Opponents fear negative impacts on their health, loss of green spaces, disturbance to wildlife, and potential devaluation of their properties.
Residents like Justin Hopkins and David Fulkner in Bishton believe the solar farm proposal poses a threat to the area’s biodiversity and landscapes. They express worries about the lasting effects the construction and operation of the solar farm could have on the village and its surroundings. Concerns are also raised about the potential environmental impact based on similar solar farm projects in the region, citing a decline in bird and bat species at the nearby Llanwern solar farm.
In response to criticisms, JBM emphasises the proposed benefits of the solar farm project. The company claims that the development would generate energy equivalent to powering over 45,000 homes and reduce carbon emissions by saving millions of tonnes of CO2. JBM also highlights plans for creating new wildflower meadows and habitats for local wildlife, as well as investing in community initiatives like rooftop solar installations for schools and community buildings.
Despite the promises of environmental enhancements and community benefits, many residents in Bishton remain unconvinced. Community members like Sinead Johnson express concerns about the disruptive construction process, potential lack of benefits for residents, and the long-term impact on the village. The ongoing dialogue between proponents and opponents of the solar farm reflects a broader debate about balancing renewable energy development with local environmental and community concerns.