Plans to install solar panels on land near Chesterfield Royal Hospital, which will provide a “considerable proportion” of the site’s energy needs, are set to be given the go-ahead.<\/p>\n
Chesterfield Borough Council’s planning committee is recommended to approve a planning application on Monday to place the panels on land north of the hospital site.<\/p>\n
According to planning documents, the trust considered a roof-mounted solar scheme, but this was not feasible due to several constraints, including operational and safety concerns.<\/p>\n
A report submitted with the plans from Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust said it would help reduce costs for the trust and also provide energy resilience.<\/p>\n
“The primary goal is for solar electricity to offset the electricity drawn from the grid, thereby reducing dependence on non-renewable energy sources,” the report stated.<\/p>\n
“Overall, the objective is to promote sustainable and environmentally friendly practices while providing tangible benefits to the hospital and offsetting the site’s primary energy use at Chesterfield Royal Hospital.”<\/p>\n
The move comes after the hospital trust was awarded \u00a36.5m of government money<\/a> to invest in green energy schemes.<\/p>\n A report prepared for councillors said Chesterfield Borough Council had received 18 letters which outlined objections and concerns about the proposed scheme.<\/p>\n The report details concerns raised, including the potential impact on wildlife in the area, and stated solar panels could be “visually unappealing”.<\/p>\n However, planning documents submitted by the applicant state the proposals would not “adversely affect” ecology or have permanent “adverse impacts” on the landscape character.<\/p>\n Listen to BBC Radio Derby on Sounds<\/a> and follow BBC Derby on Facebook<\/a>, on X<\/a>, or on Instagram<\/a>. Send your story ideas to eastmidsnews@bbc.co.uk<\/a> or via WhatsApp<\/a> on 0808 100 2210.<\/p>\n More on this storyRelated internet links