Battery energy storage system at Hurst Farm, Tibshelf, Alfreton

“The application proposes the ‘Installation and Operation of Energy Storage System (ESS) including Energy Storage Units, Substation, Site Access, Landscaping & Associated Infrastructure’. This comprises the following elements:”

“The ESS stores electricity in batteries and releases it when needed, helping to balance energy supply and demand. The proposed development is projected to have a storage capacity of 99.9MWac. The planning application seeks temporary permission for a period of 40 years from the date it is first brought into use.”

“The site comprises approximately 7.9 hectares of agricultural land at Hurst Farm, Tibshelf. The farm building complex sits at the end of a long access road off Mansfield Road, to the east of the M1 motorway. The main part of the application site comprises a detached and distinct agricultural field to the north of the farm complex, with topography that drops from west to east.”

“While the proposed development does not directly generate renewable energy, it does provide for the storage of energy produced by renewable sources that would otherwise be wasted if the full demand does not exist at the time it is generated.”

“On balance, the conflict with countryside policies of the Local Plan and harm identified is considered to be outweighed by benefits of the development, having regard to the importance of energy security, the importance of supporting the provision and use of renewable energy, national policy and guidance on the subject and related appeal decisions.”

“The proposed development will provide us with an additional income stream, supporting the diversification of activities at Hurst Farm. This would help the farm become more resilient to volatile energy prices and future market conditions, supporting its viability and therefore the continued agricultural use of land at Hurst Farm.”

“A Member provided thanks to the report and stated the site proved a substantial distance from the site of historical importance and that with natural tree foliage would be likely hidden / partially hidden for all but the winter months.”

“A Member added to the previously raised environmental benefits the national security benefits such a proposal would bring.”

“Moved by Councillor Tom Munro and seconded by Councillor Phil Smith RESOLVED that application no. 25/00302/FUL be APPROVED subject to the following conditions:”