Battling for Farmland: Anglesey Council Takes on Solar Power Plans

Anglesey council is gearing up for a legal showdown against the Welsh government over its recent approval of a controversial solar farm project. The scheme, championed by Rebecca Evans, the Welsh government energy secretary, is set to blanket 660 acres (267 hectares) near the Llyn Alaw reservoir with solar panels. Despite the government’s claims of its environmental benefits, the council and local residents express deep concerns regarding its impact on agricultural land and potential food safety issues.

Council leader Gary Pritchard voiced his disappointment and frustration with the Welsh government’s decision, arguing that it contradicts established planning guidelines. He emphasized that the council’s opposition stems from significant worries about losing land that is vital for agriculture. The Anglesey independents group, led by Aled Morris Jones, echoed this sentiment, warning that the solar project is reminiscent of the Tryweryn valley tragedy, where land was flooded for water supply—this time, they argue, the land is at risk of being covered in solar panels.

The solar farm, if it proceeds, will take about a year to build and will operate for 40 years. While the Welsh government has defended its choices, insisting the benefits of renewable energy, such as achieving a 70% renewable energy target by 2030, outweigh the harms, local officials remain steadfast in their challenge, citing a need to protect the island’s farming heritage. The legal challenge from the council is a pivotal moment in the ongoing debate over renewable energy versus agricultural sustainability.