Telford & Wrekin Council award contract for solar farm
Telford & Wrekin Council has awarded IZEN energy systems the contract to build the borough’s first publicly funded solar farm.
IZEN energy systems, which has a subsidiary in Staffordshire, will construct the commercial-scale 4MW capacity solar farm on council-owned land in Wheat Leasows.
IZEN energy systems has 27 years of experience in the renewable energy sector, as well as large solar plants, IZEN also installs residential and commercial solar systems.
The solar farm at Wheat Leasows will comprise of more than 16,000 panels on a site of 11.7 hectares which should generate enough electricity to power more than 800 homes.
The council has made a commitment to move towards a more sustainable financial position to help offset government cuts. The solar farm project is a part of its strategy to find new ways of generating income that will help protect frontline services.
The solar farm will also form a part of the Council’s wider energy strategy to aid a reduction in its carbon footprint which includes improving energy efficiency and energy generation in Council buildings.
IZEN energy systems said: ““We are proud to get the opportunity to contribute to a more sustainable council. This region is an example for local authorities.
“During the procurement process, the council notified the local supply chain who the key bidders were so that suppliers could proactively engage in the process at the tender stage.
“Engaging with supply chains at contract notice stage supports local sustainability through potential employment opportunities and commercial growth.”
Councillor Shaun Davies, Telford & Wrekin’s cabinet member with responsibility for Commercial Strategy & Economic Projects, said: “We’re really pleased to confirm we have awarded the contract to IZEN to build the council’s first solar farm”.
“This project demonstrates our commitment to show community leadership and to be a greener council.”
“Work on the solar farm will begin as soon as possible and the revenue from it will help to secure funding for future services.”
The solar farm will be one of only a few publicly funded solar farms in the UK.
