New PV Solar sites and BNG

[steveR]

I had a long discussion today whilke at the NEC, on BNG and new PV solar sites, with specific reference as to whether the site could be monetised by BNG, and if so, who owned the BNG gain?

Seems a VERY grey area. My understanding, is that simply planting grass mix on a formerly arable lane, could contstitute a Gain. From my understanding, the problem, might well be in the site management once built. Fine if in the hands of the farmer (who gets the BNG monies) less so if the PV management company are involved, using their Contractors, whose work can vary substantially.

Anyone with a new site whjo has explored or come across this please?

 

[teslacoils]

I think surplus bng credits beyond what's needed by the pv project are open to negotiation...

 

[steveR]

I think surplus bng credits beyond what's needed by the pv project are open to negotiation...

Thanks.

I can see a phone call with my Agent might be in order in the next week or so. I think the switch from arable to grass will help, although I did agree that using sheep to "manage" a BNG area will take some sorting! A suggestion of pulling stock out for 7-8 weeks might make it viable, which if the dates can be varied around a site, is doable.

 

[onesiedale]

i would imagine that a solar PV project would absorb any of the credits

 

[steveR]

i would imagine that a solar PV project would absorb any of the credits

Not necessarily, was what I gathered. But worth further research on an "improved" level of BNG and if it is viable.... or workable.

 

[teslacoils]

Thanks.

I can see a phone call with my Agent might be in order in the next week or so. I think the switch from arable to grass will help, although I did agree that using sheep to "manage" a BNG area will take some sorting! A suggestion of pulling stock out for 7-8 weeks might make it viable, which if the dates can be varied around a site, is doable.

Is this your own site that you will become the grazier on? Or a dedicated part that will become some kind of wildlife feature?

I've no idea how this bng works really - I assume there is either a baseline and later assessment, or is an area of arable assumed to be X and say a restored wetland assumed to be Y?

Managing a number of graziers over a large site sounds like a not very fun task.