Sponsored Editorial

With the need for sustainable energy higher than ever, the Raspberry Solar Farm is set to provide clean, renewable energy whilst tackling the climate emergency here in Kent.

The proposed solar farm by JBM Solar, set to be located in the northwest of Sittingbourne between Lower Halstow and Iwade, would generate enough renewable energy for the annual demand of over 26,000 homes, contributing to saving over 1,500,000 tonnes of carbon.

JBM Solar, established in 2012, has secured consent for 575MW+ of clean, green, renewable solar schemes in the UK; enough renewable energy for over 195,000 homes every year.

Whilst saving large amounts of carbon compared to that of fossil fuel generation, the Raspberry Solar Farm has multiple environmental benefits; a dedicated focus on ensuring preserved and enhanced biodiversity.

For avid walkers or just those who enjoy a trip to the countryside, all poorly maintained on-site footpaths are planned to be protected and widened by up to 10 metres in width as well as enhancing them with educational boards detailing local wildlife and scenery.

The introduction of picnic benches and an outdoor classroom/workspace for the use of local schools and community groups to use would attract more groups of people to enjoy the countryside and experience nature first-hand.

As well as this, new wildflower meadows with butterfly/bee habitats, native hedgerows and trees are to be planted along paths resulting in a minimum 30% gain of local wildlife along with the installation of bird boxes, beehives, insect hotels, log piles, over 11 acres.

All existing hedgerows and trees are to be protected and preserved with an extra 3.5km planted and enhanced, aiding in screening views of panels from nearby viewpoints, along with native grassland and wildflower planted beneath the panels.

The Raspberry Solar Farm also sets the standard of providing up to 50kw of free rooftop solar for any school, community building or church in the parish, a great education and renewable resource.

In addition to contributing around £7m in local business rates; providing direct funding to local council services/projects in the area there would be over 80 construction jobs created and multiple social and economic benefits produced for the area.

You can support, comment, or ask any questions about the scheme by visiting http://raspberrysolar.farm or contacting Robin Johnson at info@raspberrysolar.farm or 07901270413.

The consultation will close on 13th January 2022.