In a debate on large solar farms co-sponsored by Alicia Kearns MP, the Rutland MP has raised, and confirmed her commitment that she will fight against, the proposed 2,175 acre Mallard Pass solar plant – in line with the views of residents of villages like Ryhall, Casterton, Essendine and Belmesthope on the Rutland-Lincolnshire border.
Mallard Pass solar plant would see 12-foot high solar panels installed over built over Good and Very Good farmland in Rutland.
The company behind the project, Canadian Solar, has had solar panels seized by the US Government for the presence of slave labour in Xinjiang in their supply chain.
In the debate today, MPs from across the country joined together to highlight large solar farms and the ecological, environmental, procedural and community impact of these plants.
George Freeman, Minister at the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy confirmed that the Government requires proper biodiversity, landscapes and land use be considered in proposals – alongside proper community engagement as part of the application process – making specific mention of Rutland’s wildlife.
Alicia Kearns, MP for Rutland and Melton said:
"Residents know that I am fighting to stop the Mallard Pass development. I’m a great supporter of renewable energy – but this isn’t the solution, due to its size, the proposer's link to blood Labour in Xinjiang, and especially if it’s approved despite the clear and vocal opposition of residents.
“At a time when food security is increasingly important, erecting 12 foot high panels over agricultural fields larger than the size of the Vatican City, is not the answer to achieving Net Zero.
“If this wasn’t enough, this project is being run by a company who have a track record of using solar panels built by slave Uyghur labour. I will not allow the fields of Rutland to be violated by the dirty spoils of blood labour.”
In the debate, George Freeman MP, Minister for Science, Research and Innovation said:
“Specific concerns about Rutland and habitat impact calls for a clearer national policy on tackling these policy tensions
“We should not be supplying goods to consumers and citizens that involve torture and illegal practices.”
