Solar energy plans for old Welbeck colliery site

Plans for three solar farms across the region have been submitted by land owner and property developer Harworth Estates and partners Re-Fin Solar and Juwi.

The two other former colliery sites are at Bilsthorpe near Mansfield and Gedling on the edge of Nottingham.

If approved, the farms would generate enough low carbon energy to provide power for 7,000 homes.

Solar energy harnesses daylight and converts it into electricity.

“As custodians of many former coal mining sites, Harworth Estates takes seriously its remit to create jobs in the communities where we work,” said Gary Owens, development manager at Harworth Estates.

“Low carbon energy projects are an important part of Harworth Estates’ commitment to the community and the environment, and these three solar projects will deliver both energy and jobs.”

“Solar power is an important part of the UK’s move to guarantee energy security and reduce carbon emissions. It would be most appropriate for what were major coal-producing sites to be home to major solar energy plants.”