A public consultation has been launched for a proposed solar farm north of the A4 and east of Chippenham, at Forest Gate.

The proposed development, by Wiltshire-based Eden Renewables, is for a solar farm that would generate enough renewable electricity to supply the equivalent of around 13,800 typical homes.

Local people will also have the opportunity to invest directly in the solar farm through a partnership with local community climate-change group, Zero Chippenham.

Because of the current Covid-19 situation, Eden Renewables is offering a virtual online consultation via the Zoom webinar platform on Thursday November 12 at 6.00 pm. This will provide an opportunity for local people to view the proposals, provide feedback and ask questions.

Alec Greenwell, Development Manager at Eden Renewables, said: “Wiltshire Council has an ambitious target to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2030, twenty years ahead of the UK’s goal. Solar power is one of the best ways we have of decarbonising the energy sector at the lowest cost.”

Dr Nick Murry, chairman of Zero Chippenham and Wiltshire Councillor, said: “We’ve been talking to Eden Renewables for some time about working together on a community solar investment scheme. Forest Gate solar farm will make a valuable contribution to cutting Wiltshire’s carbon emissions and should be a win-win all round.”

The site will combine the latest solar technology with battery storage which means that the energy can be used when it is needed most.

Eden has sent out around 780 invitations to local people living in the area. As well as the chance for community investment, a community benefit fund will be set up to be spent on local educational, social and environmental projects.

Following the public consultation, Eden aims to submit a planning application to Wiltshire Council by the end of the year.