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Solar and protecting our Food Security and Best and Most Versatile (BMV) Land
15 May 2024
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Department for Energy Security and Net Zero
At a Glance
Issue Summary
The statement addresses the balance between energy security through solar development and food production on agricultural land, specifically protecting 'Best and Most Versatile' (BMV) land for agriculture.
Action Requested
The minister is outlining further details on how to apply policies that prioritize using lower quality land for solar projects while minimizing impacts on BMV agricultural land. The government will also expand the Renewable Energy Planning Database and improve soil surveys, along with supporting rooftop solar installations through tax incentives and grants.
Key Facts
- Solar power deployment is expected to increase five-fold by 2035 (up to 70GW).
- The National Policy Statement published in January emphasizes minimizing impacts on BMV agricultural land.
- Cumulative impacts of solar developments are being monitored, especially in areas like Lincolnshire.
- Improving Farm Productivity grant offers between £15-25 million for rooftop solar installations.
- Changes to permitted development rights allow large-scale commercial rooftop solar installation and car park solar canopies.
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