Bristol City Leap, a world-first joint venture partnership between Bristol City Council and Ameresco, is set to submit a planning application for an additional solar farm at a strategic site owned by the council.
This new solar project, located at a brownfield site along Smoke Lane in Avonmouth, aims to install approximately 2.5 megawatts of capacity and is the third local renewables project Bristol City Leap has announced this year. The clean energy generated is anticipated to power the equivalent of around 970 homes annually, contributing to the advancement of sustainable energy practices.
This initiative represents yet another important milestone in Bristol’s journey toward achieving its decarbonisation targets and enhancing the city’s renewable energy infrastructure. By decreasing carbon emissions, this project will play a vital role in shaping a more sustainable future for the city.
Renewable energy projects not only harness clean energy but also fortify communities by boosting energy security and creating vital job opportunities. With a strong track record in the sector, these initiatives ensure environmental sustainability while supporting local communities.
Mark Apsey MBE, Senior Vice President at Ameresco, stated, “Establishing yet another solar farm site is a significant move forward in Bristol’s transition to clean, renewable energy. From planning and construction to ongoing maintenance, this project will generate skilled local employment and reinforce our community’s economic foundations while paving the way for a more sustainable future.”
Councillor Martin Fodor, Chair of the Environment and Sustainability Committee, commented, “We are excited to see projects like this take shape in Bristol. Solar farms are crucial for increasing local power generation and achieving our ambition of becoming a carbon-neutral city. By increasing the volume of renewable electricity on our grid, we can cut our reliance on fossil fuels. This project is a welcome example of the Bristol City Leap partnership creating practical solutions and benefit for the local community as well.”
This local renewable energy initiative is a crucial component of Bristol City Leap’s mission to support the city’s goal of achieving net zero by 2030. The site was selected based on thorough criteria, including its connectivity to the local grid and its potential for energy production. Bristol City Leap is committed to engaging with local communities to align the city’s renewable energy objectives with the diverse needs and interests of residents.
In the coming year, the partnership will organise community engagement events to inform local businesses, residents and community organisations about the project and the benefits that it will bring to the local area. More information regarding the project will be made available on the Bristol City Leap website as it unfolds. This endeavour reflects the core values that underpin all Bristol City Leap initiatives, which prioritise benefits to local communities. A portion of the revenue generated will be dedicated to supporting community projects, building on the success of the existing Bristol City Leap Community Energy Fund to provide targeted assistance to community needs.
Through the collaborative efforts of Bristol City Council and Ameresco, Bristol is set to advance its transition to renewable energy, fostering sustainable growth and reinforcing its status as a leader in decarbonisation efforts.
For more information, visit: https://www.bristolcityleap.co.uk/local-renewables/
