Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Context
The MP inquired about the assessment made on the potential benefits of agrivoltaic technology for generating clean energy in England.
What recent assessment has been made of the potential contribution of agrivoltaics to clean energy generation in England?
The Government closely follow developments in the agrivoltaics sector and support innovative technologies, for instance through initiatives funded by UK Research and Innovation. In the solar road map that we have published, the Government and industry have committed themselves to exploring future research and demonstration opportunities for agrivoltaic systems.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2
Direct Answer
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Context
The MP praised the government's commitment to renewable energy but raised concerns about the current weather conditions in the east of England and suggested that agrivoltaic systems could provide shade, reduce water evaporation from reservoirs, and help livestock.
Given the opportunities for agrivoltaics on reservoirs to tackle evaporation and in fields to mitigate stress faced by livestock and crops, is it time to use this innovative approach more extensively?
The hon. Friend is absolutely right, and we are in favour of innovation wherever we can deploy solar. We want to explore opportunities for solar on reservoirs and support the University of Lancaster's work to develop models for agrivoltaic technologies. Planning policy supports the integration of farming with solar generation.
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Assessment & feedback
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Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP raised concerns regarding the use of high-quality agricultural land for installing ground-mounted solar panels, emphasizing that such installations would hinder traditional farming practices and pointed out previous loss of farmland in east Kent.
Given the loss of grade 1 agricultural land in east Kent, is it not disingenuous to suggest that panels on concrete bases will be removed after 30 years, as they are often mounted on permanent structures?
Firstly, farming can coexist with solar generation. Secondly, even if we hit ambitious targets, less than 0.6% of farmland will be used for solar. Thirdly, rooftop solar generation on car parks, offices, and schools is encouraged alongside ground-mounted systems to meet energy challenges.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific concerns about the permanence of concrete bases and loss of agricultural land quality were not directly addressed with commitments or policies.
Response accuracy