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Council site earmarked for new solar farm to boost green energy input
A public-private partnership, hailed as a ‘blueprint’ for city-level decarbonisation, has set its sights on a new solar farm.
Bristol City Leap – a collaboration between Bristol City Council, Ameresco, and Vattenfall Heat UK – has unveiled plans to expand solar energy capacity with a new site aimed at meeting “decarbonisation goals while enhancing the city’s renewable energy framework”.
The proposed site, located on Hersey Gardens Road in south Bristol, is expected to generate 1.3MW of electricity, enough to power approximately 506 homes annually.
Owned by the city council, the site is expected not only to provide clean energy but also to “bolster community resilience, improve energy security and create essential local jobs.”
The application for new solar farm follows the planning application to expand the existing solar farm on Severn Road in Avonmouth – photo: City Leap
This is the second solar farm application for this year, following plans to expand the existing Severn Road site in Avonmouth, which is expected to generate enough power for around 1,868 homes annually.
The planning application for the new solar farm on Hersey Gardens Road is expected to be submitted by the end of October.
Mark Apsey, senior vice president at Ameresco, said: “The development of this new solar farm in South Bristol marks a significant milestone in our journey toward a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.
“This project will deliver vital renewable energy infrastructure and create skilled local employment opportunities – from planning and construction to long-term maintenance. It’s a powerful example of how we can strengthen our communities while accelerating the transition to net zero.”
The project is tipped to align with Bristol City Leap’s mission to reach net zero by 2030, with the site selected for its strong grid connection and high energy potential.
Martin Fodor, chair of the environment and sustainability committee, welcomed the initiative.
He said: “We are thrilled to see the development of innovative projects like this in Bristol. Solar farms are essential in helping us achieve our goal of becoming a carbon-neutral city.
“By increasing the share of renewable energy in our grid, we can significantly reduce our reliance on fossil fuels. This project truly reflects the spirit of the Bristol City Leap partnership.”
Bristol City Leap has expressed its plans to engage with local residents through meetings and community events, including sessions at The Withywood Centre.
Martin Fodor, chair of the environment & sustainability policy committee on Bristol City Council, welcomed the prospective solar farm – photo: Green Party
Profits from the solar farm are expected to fund local initiatives, building on the success of the Community Energy Fund, which has supported several community-based green energy initiatives.
Main photo: Bristol City Leap
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