A CORNISH developer of renewable energy projects is looking to gauge the public reception to several different proposals for energy projects at Heane Farm near Hatherleigh.

Mi-Grid is exploring the potential for varying energy projects at the site. Located 1.9 kilometres west of Hatherleigh, the site has a south-south-easterly aspect and is on grade 4 agricultural land.

The developer has mooted four potential proposals. These are for a solar farm covering 25 acres of the site, a wind farm of three turbines, a single medium scale turbine, or a single small scale turbine.

A spokesperson for Mi-Grid said: 'The site at Heane Farm was selected after a stringent site search which considered both technical and planning constraints. The site is suitable for renewable energy development as it lies outside of any landscape designations such as the AONB and national parks, any sites recognised for historic or ecological protection and importance, and is a good distance from neighbouring properties.

The renewable resources at the site, both in terms of wind speed and solar radiation, are high and a connection to the local distribution grid has been identified.

'We are keen to get as much feedback from the community as possible and their comments will play a big part in helping us make the final decision of how to proceed at the site.

'The feedback that we have received so far suggests that the community would not accept the larger of the four projects – three 100m+ wind turbines -  and it is expected that this option will be ruled out as direct result of the feedback.

'At this stage it is considered that either the single medium scale wind turbine or the solar farm are the most appropriate developments for the site, following the feedback we've received and the feasibility work undertaken to date. The consultation is ongoing and we would encourage members of the local community to send their feedback.'

The solar farm would generate five megawatts and Mi-Grid state that land would still be able to be grazed by sheep under and between the solar panels. The energy produced by such a solar farm would produce enough energy for approximately 1,260 average UK homes, and offset 2,290 tonnes of CO2 per year.

The single medium turbine would generate 900 kilowatts, and stand at 70 to 80 metres tall. The energy produced would meet the needs of approximately 470 homes and offset 850 tonnes of CO2. The small single turbine suggested would stand at 35 metres and only produce enough energy for 28 homes and offset 51 tonnes of CO2.

A decision on what development Mi-Grid will pursue will be taken after the result of screening opinions from West Devon Borough Council and upon consideration of the responses following the circulation of a leaflet to residents of the area, as well as being subject to grid capacity and other constraints.

Prior to any planning application being submitted for the site, a public exhibition will be held so that any interested parties can view planning documents and talk to representatives of Mi-Grid.

To respond to Mi-Grid with your preferences for the development at Heane Farm or for more information, write to Heane Farm Project, Mi-Grid Ltd, The Studio, Trevissome Park, Truro, TR4 8UN. Alternatively, you can e-mail [email protected]">[email protected]

The developer recently held a public consultation meeting in Winkleigh regarding a planning proposal for a controversial 77 metre wind turbine at Bryony Hill Farm. Around 120 people attended the meeting, with the majority opposing the proposals.