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New Solar Farm Could Power 140,000 Homes
5 Sep
Summary
- A new solar farm project is proposed for Oxfordshire.
- It could potentially power 140,000 homes annually.
- The decision rests with the energy secretary, not local council.
A large-scale solar farm, named Cearn Solar Farm, is being proposed for construction across approximately 2,800 acres in Oxfordshire. The project, situated in the Vale of White Horse near villages like West Hanney and Goosey, has the potential to power around 140,000 homes annually. This development includes plans for underground cables to connect to the Farmoor substation and an integrated battery energy storage system.
Due to its considerable size, the Cearn Solar Farm is classified as nationally significant. Consequently, the final planning application decision will be made by the energy secretary, bypassing the local district council. Telis Energy UK, the company behind the proposal, has announced plans to hold community workshops in September and October, followed by a broader public consultation in early 2027.
This proposal comes amidst ongoing scrutiny of similar projects, with the Botley West solar farm facing a recent government delay for further information. The MP for Bicester and Woodstock has expressed opposition to the Botley West plans, highlighting concerns about their validity.