A proposed solar panel installation in Guernsey has gained an unlikely supporter after a previous critic reviewed the project details with its applicant.
Len Shephard’s application involves placing 72 solar panels on a site behind his property in St Sampson. According to Shephard, the installation could supply electricity to approximately five Guernsey households annually while reducing reliance on energy sources equivalent to saving 505 trees per year. The panels are designed to be fully removable, and the supporting structure is elevated to allow grass and wildlife access to sunlight beneath the installation.
Chris Chadwick initially filed a complaint about the proposal due to the site’s greenfield designation. However, after meeting with Shephard to discuss the project’s specifics, Chadwick stated he became convinced of its merits. Chadwick explained that his original concern stemmed from limited online information about the application when he reviewed it near the end of the public notification period. Upon learning more details, he determined that Shephard had carefully considered environmental and practical concerns.
Shephard noted that the site had been inactive for 45 years following agricultural greenhouse operations and contained buried greenhouse materials that prevented conventional farming use. He argued that the greenfield classification reflected planning designation limitations rather than the site’s actual condition and suitability. Shephard emphasized the value of direct discussion in conveying project details that may not be fully apparent from online planning documents.
Chadwick characterized the solar installation as an altruistic rather than commercial undertaking, noting that Shephard would likely not realize financial returns during his lifetime. The application is currently undergoing site assessment review by planning authorities.
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