It is estimated that a quarter of the carbon emissions that contribute towards climate change are caused by the burning of fossil fuels.
In response, the global energy markets are being transformed, with fossil fuel-based capacity being replaced by renewable energy. Solar is the fastest growing energy source globally and the first that can be built without subsidy in the UK.
The UK already has a large solar resource, with solar supplying up to 25% of total electricity requirements on some days.
The UK government is committed to achieving zero net carbon emissions by 2050 and this will require a much larger contribution from renewables, including solar.
Solar was originally developed with the support of incentive schemes, including the Feed in Tariff and Renewables Obligation. However, falling costs and greater efficiencies mean that solar is now the first energy source that can be built without any financial support from the government.
Solar benefits from being silent, having low visual impact, being relatively easy to install and requiring little maintenance. Well-designed solar farms can be managed to enhance biodiversity and the local environment.
A solar farm involves the installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels on open land, which generate electricity for the local distribution network.
The solar panels are mounted on frames which are either driven into the ground or surface mounted. Their height above ground is up to 2.75m. The panels are usually south facing but may be mounted on automatic tracking systems that follow the sun.
The site is fenced for security purposes and includes remotely monitored CCTV. The solar installation connects with the local electricity network via transformers, a sub-station and high voltage overhead lines at either 33kV, 66kV or 132kV.
Once installed and operational, the solar farm’s performance can by monitored remotely and the technology requires only periodic inspection for maintenance activities. Bluefield seeks to work with landowners to develop an effective land management regime which encourages environmental and biodiversity enhancement.