Each project is unique, and timings do vary, however typically from the point of agreeing to work together to having a consented project will take around two years. Construction work often is completed within six months once begun, the starting point linked to the ‘energisation date’ onto the local electricity network which can be from two – five years depending on the location.

The ideal site is located within a few miles of a 33kV, 66kV or 132kV part of the electricity network, between 100 - 200 acres and not located within the bounds of an ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’. Planning considerations will include wildlife reviews, nearby heritage, land classification & local community related considerations too.

Farmland is cared for & often handed down through generations. Hosting a renewable energy project on your land is a long-term decision, typically for 40 years, which could bring in a new regular income steam with minimal workload during the operations phase. It could also preserve your land from permanent development and give your soil a chance to recover from farming.

By their nature, renewable energy projects are temporary installations. During the lease period your land will be taken out of intensive agriculture and given a rest. During that time, the soil structure & biome will have chance to improve, and both flora & fauna will return, just as when land is set aside. Once cabling & all site infrastructure is removed at the project end date, your land can be returned to agricultural use.

Arise is a well-capitalised and experienced developer. Prior to signing anything with you, we will undertake a rigorous initial feasibility assessment to assess the suitability of your land to host a renewable energy project. After signing to work exclusively with you, we make an application for an offer to connect to the electricity network and address any obvious planning concerns. Arise only takes on projects that we then focus on to develop successfully alongside landowners. We are not an agent nor are just ‘pipeline building’ as can frequently be the case.

You will primarily earn a revenue from land rental income, usually starting when the project lease is entered into. Rent is paid quarterly and increases with CPI to secure long-term value. We will also make a one-off payment known as an option fee once the option to lease has been entered in to.

Different things at different times. In our experience, when people are just learning of a potential energy project, there will be a mix of support, curiosity & some natural concern. As development proceeds, we aim to be transparent and engage with the community via a dedicated website, by open exhibitions within your local area and by direct engagement with interested parties such as Parish Councils. This engagement, coupled with the planning process allows neighbours to voice their opinions, learn more about the plans and often to share ideas to improve the schemes.

Its seldom the case that we will please everyone, however a recent Government Survey showed:

“Asked their views on the prospect of a solar farm being built in their local area, 81% of respondents said they would be very happy, fairly happy or would not mind. Only 3% were significantly opposed, while 8% felt that a solar farm would not be feasible locally.”

https://solarenergyuk.org/news/public-has-positive-views-of-solar-farms-finds-government-survey/

Once past planning, there is some temporary disturbance of during construction and then the project becomes operational. As grass grows back and hedges mature, the project becomes part of the local setting, adding interest to a walk and being a safe haven for flora & fauna to return.