New application for large solar array in Jersey

Jersey Electricity want to install about 10,000 panels on the site

Jersey Electricity has applied to build a solar panel array which would cover eight fields in St Mary parish.

The owners of the land on La Rue de La Hougue Mauger have worked with the utility company to design the site.

A public consultation was held in 2023 by Jersey Electricity to gather residents' views on installing two solar arrays in the area.

The application claimed the area was well suited but archaeologists have said more investigation is needed as there could be historic remains at the site.

An initial survey of the area by Museum of London Archaeology found there was no direct evidence of prehistoric activity within the site.

The survey did, however, suggest that further surveys were needed due to the site's close proximity to megalithic features and the area's lack of historic development.

'10,000 solar panels'

The application, which was submitted in August, shows the array would include almost 10,000 ground-mounted solar panels, producing 5.38 Megawatts of electricity.

Two members of the public have objected to the plans, both stating that the island receiving green energy supply from France justifies not installing solar panels on island countryside.

Jersey Electricity said the land in and around the solar equipment would remain in dual agricultural use, with the potential to support new farming practices and innovation.