Residents Resist Proposed 2,700-Acre Solar Project in Devon

In October 2025, a proposed solar farm project in rural Devon is causing a stir among local residents. The Beacon Solar project, which could cover up to 2,700 acres (1,100 hectares), is being developed by Galileo Empower and is considered one of the largest solar schemes in the UK.

While the government has stated that solar is central to its mission to become a clean energy superpower, delivering energy security and lowering bills, some residents are not convinced. Stephen Boulton, who moved to the area for its scenic views, is now leading the campaign against the project, along with his wife Sharon and other locals.

The residents are concerned about the size of the proposed scheme and its potential impact on wildlife and the loss of farmland. They argue that there are other options to explore first, such as rooftop solar, solar on car parks, and offshore wind, which they believe would have less of an impact on people's daily lives.

Lisa Keogh, who runs a small holiday park in the area, is also worried about the potential impact on tourism if the project goes ahead. She says people come to the region for the beautiful Devon countryside, and she is not against renewable energy, but believes there needs to be a balance.

Despite the local opposition, the developer remains committed to the project, stating that it will help tackle climate change while also protecting and enhancing local ecosystems. The government has also reiterated its support for solar as a key technology in the transition to a net-zero energy future.

The decision on whether the Beacon Solar project will go ahead will ultimately be made by the government, as it is classified as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project. The local community will have the opportunity to provide feedback on the plans in 2026 before the developer submits the application in 2027.