Ridge Clean Energy (RCE) has submitted its proposal for the Fair Oaks Renewable Energy Park, an innovative hybrid renewable energy project that comes with tangible benefits for the local community and the environment.
The proposed 49.9MW park, situated to the south west of Ruddington, would pair solar with battery storage. The combination of technologies will achieve efficient, reliable, and stable energy generation.
Marjorie Glasgow BEM, co-founder of RCE says “We develop each project with the scope to do so much more than generate power. We believe that combining clean energy with the needs of communities is the most powerful way to tackle climate change and its impacts”.
The associated Fair Oaks Community Benefit Fund is also projected to provide £24,950 per year for the lifespan of the project (up to 40 years), alongside a development team bringing talent and experience for delivering projects with enduring benefits for communities.
“It’s already been a rewarding experience getting to know the friendly residents of Ruddington community, it’s such an active and vibrant village. I look forward to collaborating and supporting existing projects or new initiatives in the future.” says Rebecca Renfrew, Community Partnership Officer.
In addition to the Community Benefit Fund, RCE will also provide up-front seed capital and development assistance for community projects, so people don’t have to wait until the completion of the build to start receiving benefits.
Jonny Murphy Project Manager says, “The Fair Oaks Renewable Energy Park could help the local community adapt to big challenges currently facing communities in the UK – climate change, domestic energy security, and the rising cost of living.
“We’ve also worked closely with ecology and landscape specialists to deliver an energy park that results in a 75% net gain in habitat which would support local biodiversity. The site could continue to be used for agriculture with the Applicant’s intention to enter into a sheep grazing licence at the appropriate time.
“Business rates will be calculated nearer the time of operation and would be given to Rushcliffe Borough Council to spend within the local area.”
In March 2022, Ridge Clean Energy held public exhibitions in Ruddington to engage with local communities. Approximately 110 residents attended the exhibitions giving a largely positive and encouraging response to the proposed project.
“A key interest raised at our public exhibitions was the temporary construction access route. We listened to the community and are pleased to confirm we have secured an alternative temporary construction access route avoiding Ruddington Village Centre.
“Temporary construction vehicles would now be routed off Clifton Lane south along Pasture Lane to site. The spread of the development was also raised, and we’ve been able to optimise the site design and no longer intend to site equipment on Gotham Moor south of the Fairham Brook.”
The application reference is 23/00254/FUL and can be viewed here.