Otterpool Park
In February 2025 the council’s Cabinet supported the “pathway to net zero” for the proposed new garden town. Members agreed that a renewable energy company take on the role of bringing forward a sustainable power supply scheme and obtaining the necessary planning consents.
Members were told the proposal from SNRG is to create on-site electricity generation via roof-top solar and a solar park with battery storage, all connected via a smart grid.
It is estimated that 50% of the average annual demand of the 8,500 homes planned for the new town could be generated on site with the remainder coming from suppliers of renewable energy via the national grid making the new town net zero in operation.
SNRG will be required to work with housing developers over the installation of panels for solar energy. Homeowners will receive a discounted energy tariff but will always have the choice of connecting to other energy suppliers if they want to.
The company will fund, own and operate the solar park and its connection to the smart grid. It will also remain fully accountable for servicing the investment, delivery, performance, compliance, customer satisfaction and all financial transactions. The council will have no ongoing financial liability.
Folkestone & Hythe District Council owns the agricultural land proposed for the solar park and, subject to planning permission being given, would lease the land to SNRG. It is envisaged that alongside the solar panels, sheep would be able to graze and the land could offer space for community gardens and orchards.
Decision maker
Given the likely size of the proposal, the project will be submitted as a planning application to Folkestone & Hythe District Council. The planning application process will enable the public to give their views on the proposals prior to its consideration.