Shropshire Farming Talk: Ask the Expert

Hannah Taylor,  a senior associate within the Agricultural and Rural Affairs at mfg Solicitors, responds:

"I find myself having more and more conversations with farmers and landowners who are looking at alternative income streams for their land and one such alternative that seems to be becoming more appealing is solar panels.  

"But this should be considered with caution to ensure they don’t inadvertently damage other potential income streams, for example BNG.

"BNG is a complex topic, so it’s important farmers and landowners here in Shropshire understand the basics and exactly what the opportunities are, especially when it comes to solar panel installation.

"Essentially, potential panel sites which could be used as wildflower meadows, and fall into the category 'other neutral grassland', have the potential to yield higher biodiversity gains than ‘modified grassland’, being an area of plain, quick growing grass. 

"‘Other neutral grassland’, is however more challenging as it requires more open areas and consequently the solar panels will be set further apart, giving less shading and room for agricultural vehicles.

"It can be possible to grow certain crops or plants under the solar panels, but this can be expensive and is only really possible where the panels are set high and there is good access.

"The key is to assess the site for suitability and success really comes down to careful planning. Ultimately, we would encourage farmers and landowners to seek advice from biodiversity specialists at the earliest opportunity to assess the site and ensure any needs are addressed and properly documented to meet the legal requirements. It is also important to take professional advice, particularly in light of last month’s budget."