The Cwm Ifor farm aims to power 6,000 homes. It will boost local clean energy and aid Caerphilly’s net-zero goal.
The council wants to sell the project. They will start marketing it in the spring. Public, community, and private companies are all able to buy it. Cwm Ifor may become Wales’ biggest public solar farm, depending on who purchases it.
The solar farm supports Caerphilly’s climate plan, which aims for net-zero emissions by 2030. The farm faces south, making it ideal for solar panels. Its lifespan is estimated to be about 35 years.
The Welsh Government approved the solar farm in May 2024. The project required approval due to its size. The council decided to sell it last September with the goal of both financial return and carbon reduction.
Cwm Ifor can directly benefit the community. A fund could support local groups and clean energy projects, potentially extending to the wider community. The project will also improve air quality, and its revenue will support council services. These community benefits will be included in the sale.
Savills will manage the sale for Caerphilly Council. The council hopes to start marketing in April 2025 and expects to find a buyer. If a buyer cannot be found, they will consider other options.