Jersey Electricity Proposes Solar Farm to Supply St Peter Homes

Electricity executives indicate that a proposed solar farm in Jersey has the potential to supply 17% of the homes within the parish, pending planning approval. Jersey Electricity (JE) has extended an invitation to residents of St Peter to participate in a consultation regarding a ground-mounted solar facility planned for Mont Fondon. According to company officials, the initiative for the 2.7-hectare location involves feeding electricity back into the main grid, a measure expected to “increase Jersey’s energy security.” The company stated that this particular proposal, part of a broader strategy to develop multiple sites by 2026, aligns with the government’s Island Plan and its energy policy. Mark Preece, Chief Operating Officer at Jersey Electricity, commented: “Consulting and listening to the local community on these solar developments is an important part of the process and will help to shape the planning submission, so I would encourage people to come along, find out more and share their ideas.” He further explained that during the site selection process, the company assessed the potential effects on adjacent areas and explored methods to achieve “significant ecological gains.” Mentioning a ground-mounted solar facility in St Clement slated to generate renewable energy in 2025, along with another initiative in St John, he affirmed that the company is undertaking proactive measures to “build Jersey’s energy sovereignty, diversifying our energy sources and promoting the local economy.” Jersey Electricity reported that approximately 200 potential locations underwent “rigorously evaluated” for their suitability, but most of these “fallen away as options.” The company stated its objective is to construct around six solar farms to satisfy the island’s energy requirements. The firm also noted that the Mont Fondon site would continue to be used for agriculture during the entire 40-year operational period of the installation. It was explained that installations of this type are stationary and quiet, and their impermanent character allows for the land to revert to its initial condition, with panels and structural components subsequently undergoing recycling. The public consultation is scheduled for Wednesday, running from 10:00 BST to 19:00, at St Peter’s Parish Hall.