Network says solar farm could help power parish

Bosses said the plans for the 2.7 hectare site, meant electricity would be returned to the grid in a process which would "increase Jersey's energy security"

A solar farm in Jersey could power 17% of the parish's homes if planning is approved, electricity bosses say.

Jersey Electricity (JE) is inviting St Peter parishioners to attend a consultation for a ground-based solar installation at Mont Fondon.

Bosses said the plans for the 2.7 hectare site, meant electricity would be returned to the grid in a process which would "increase Jersey's energy security".

The firm said the proposal - which is one of several sites it hopes to build by 2026 - supported the government's Island Plan and energy policy.

Mark Preece said they would listen to and consult with the community

Mark Preece, chief operating officer of Jersey Electricity, said: "Consulting and listening to the local community on these solar developments is an important part of the process and will help to shape the planning submission, so I would encourage people to come along, find out more and share their ideas."

He said in considering the site, the firm had looked at the impact on surrounding areas and how they could create "significant ecological gains".

Referencing a ground-mount solar installation in St Clement due to produce renewable energy in 2025, and a second project in St John, he said they were taking positive steps to "build Jersey's energy sovereignty, diversifying our energy sources and promoting the local economy".

'Rigorously evaluated'

Jersey Electricity said about 200 sites had been "rigorously evaluated" for suitability but the vast majority had "fallen away as options".

It said it aimed to build about six solar farms to meet energy demands in the island.

The firm said the site would remain in agricultural use throughout the 40-year lifespan of the installation.

It said such sites were static and silent, while their temporary nature allowed the return of the fields to their original state, while panels and structures would then be recycled.

The consultation is due to take place on Wednesday from 10:00 BST to 19:00 at St Peter's Parish Hall.