Plans for a new “renewable energy park” which could provide “home grown renewable energy to power homes and businesses” will be discussed in front of residents later this month.

Chint Solar, which has developed and delivered solar projects around the world, is looking to site a 60MW solar farm and 50MW Battery Energy Storage

System on approximately 98 hectares of land south of California, off Blackbraes Road.

The international renewable energy company believes the Blackbraes Renewable Energy Park is “exploring” how the benefits of the project could be felt within the local community.

The meeting will take place in Avonbridge Church Hall (Picture: Submitted)

placeholder image — The meeting will take place in Avonbridge Church Hall (Picture: Submitted)

Mark van Rij, Chint Solar UK manager, said: “Blackbraes renewable energy park is an opportunity to generate clean electricity here in Scotland and store it so it can be used when the grid needs it most.

“The land is already used for sheep grazing, and our intention is that this can continue alongside renewable energy generation. We are also looking at how the

project could provide practical benefits locally, whether through support for community projects or help with energy costs.

"Beyond energy generation, our vision is to create a scheme that responds to its surroundings. With native planting and screening measures to soften views, we want

to create a development that sits comfortably in the environment.

“Our plans are at an early stage, and listening to local communities is at the heart of our approach. This consultation gives people the opportunity to provide feedback

and help shape the proposals before they are developed further.”

Chint Solar is a drop-in public consultation event will be held between 3.30pm and 7.30pm on Thursday, Spetember 17 at Avonbridge Church Hall, Avonbridge Church of Scotland, Standburn Road.

Members of the project team will be available to explain the early proposals, answer questions and hear feedback from local residents.

Those who are unable to attend, or would like to find out more, can visit the Blackbraes Renewable Energy Park website to view the full consultation materials and

complete the online feedback form.

Feedback can also be submitted by e-mailing [email protected], calling the Community Information Line on 0333 358 0502 between 9am and 5.30pm, Monday to Friday, or writing free of charge to FREEPOST SHAPE TOMORROW.

The consultation period will run until Sunday, September 27.