Earlier this month, Richard wrote to Energy Secretary Ed Miliband, to seek clarification on whether Best and Most Versatile (BMV) agricultural land remains a criterion in solar project assessments, and if its weighting in approval decisions has changed. Richard's letter can be read here. Richard welcomes that Ed Miliband's response has confirmed that BMV land should not be used for solar projects. Ed Miliband's response can be read here.
Richard Fuller MP says:
I'm aware that Mr Miliband has faced criticism for his decisions when it comes to solar projects, but I was pleased to see his commitment to protecting the UK’s Best and Most Versatile (BMV) agricultural land.
In his recent letter, he confirmed that BMV land should not be used for solar projects unless necessary. This is an important position to ensure our farmland is safeguarded. It’s reassuring to see the government commit to not weaken these protections.
As a CPRE Rooftop Solar Champion, I strongly believe that rooftop solar is a far better alternative to using productive farmland. I have written to the government to propose installing a connection pipe along the A1 and A421 to facilitate the connection of commercial rooftop solar to the National Grid. While I have yet to receive a response, I hope this idea will be seriously considered as a more sustainable and efficient solution.
Protecting our agricultural land must remain a priority, and I am pleased to see the government confirm its commitment to this.
