Torbay solar farm will power hospital

Council borrows £4 million to fund scheme

A new solar farm on the outskirts of Torbay will be a ‘win-win situation’ for the bay, councillors have been told.

The council’s cabinet approved the project for the facility at Nightingale Park in Torquay, borrowing more than £4 million to do so. The council will get the money back by selling the power it generates to Torbay Hospital.

Negotiations will now begin on how much the hospital will be expected to pay for the electricity, at a price which also covers the cost of maintaining and operating the solar farm.

“It’s a good deal for all,” said Cllr Chris Lewis (Con, Preston). “We’re not only having a solar farm but we’re also helping to save the world!

“It’s a win-win situation that helps Torbay to reduce carbon emissions and helps our friends and partners at the hospital.

“It’s a good use of an ex-tip site that can now be put to full use.”

Nightingale Park had been earmarked at one time as a site for a new Torquay United stadium by previous club owners Gaming International.

However, the council has also chosen it for the solar farm as long ago as 2021, and Gaming International walked away from the football club earlier this year.

The council authorised borrowing more than £3 million in 2021, but councillors heard that costs had increased since and a higher level of borrowing is now needed.