MoD raises concerns about solar farm impact on Marham jets

The MoD said that light reflected from the solar farm could adversely impact the base’s precision approach radar. Worries about pilots and ground crew being dazzled were also raised.

John Wilson spoke for the MoD’s Defence Infrastructure Organisation at the hearing.

He said: “It’s interesting that the applicant has identified the impact glint and glare is described as low.

“The MoD identifies it as yellow, this is the middle level of concern.”

The MP for North West Norfolk, James Wild, pointed out that the strategic importance of RAF Marham was particularly relevant given the current conflict in Iran.

He asked Wilson if the MoD had ever opposed a development like this before.

He was told yes, that changes were requested to a planned solar farm near to the Royal Naval Air Station Yeovilton because of similar concerns.

The developer IPG said it “recognises the importance of this matter” and was working with the MoD to find a solution.