Council urged to expand use of solar energy while protecting farm land

A council is being urged to expand its use of solar energy while protecting vital farmland from large-scale schemes.

Monmouthshire County Council’s Conservative leader Cllr Richard John is calling for a “more environmentally responsible approach” to solar development — one that prioritises rooftops and car parks over agricultural land.

Cllr John said: “The proposals for industrial solar parks on the Gwent Levels and farmland near Llangybi would cause irreparable damage to our countryside and should be stopped.”

He supports a “rooftops and car parks first” policy, warning against solar installations on productive farmland or environmentally sensitive areas like the Gwent Levels.

The Conservative group on the council is supporting residents fighting proposals for industrial-scale solar schemes on prime agricultural land between Llangybi and Ponthir and on the Gwent Levels near Magor.

Cllr John said: “The model at Magor should be replicated across the county with self-funding solar carports that can reduce electricity bills and generate a surplus that we can reinvest in frontline services.”

During the last Conservative administration, the council commissioned solar carports for a council-owned car park in Magor and installed panels on buildings including schools and leisure centres.

Cllr John said: “We should be rolling out many more of these—starting with every major council‑owned car park.”

Solar carports can generate electricity, provide vehicle shade, and become self-funding within eight to 12 years.