Plea to Extend Solar Farm Operation Near Formby Bypass to 40 Years

Plans have been submitted to extend the lifetime of a proposed solar farm near Formby Bypass, which could generate enough electricity to power 3,000 homes per year.

The project, set to be built on 8.16 hectares of land at Tip Field, south of North Moss Lane near RAF Woodvale, was originally granted planning permission in June 2020. The company behind the development, Taiyo Power & Storage Limited, has now applied to Sefton Council to extend the operation period to 40 years from the date it starts generating electricity.

What the Solar Farm Will Do.

The solar farm is designed to produce clean, renewable energy for the National Grid. According to Taiyo Power & Storage Limited, this project would help reduce Sefton’s carbon footprint at a time when the council has declared a Climate Emergency.

If approved, the solar farm is expected to:

✔ Generate enough electricity to power 3,000 homes per year

✔ Reduce carbon dioxide emissions by over 3,200 tonnes annually compared to fossil fuels

✔ Support the UK’s goal of reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2050

About the Site

The land at Tip Field has historically been used as pasture for livestock but was originally a refuse tip in the 19th century, which raised the land by 3 to 3.5 metres above the surrounding area.

The planned 9MW solar farm will feature 16,500 solar panels, standing no higher than 2.2 metres, meaning the visual impact on the surrounding landscape will be minimal.

Why Extend the Operational Period?

Under the original planning permission, the solar farm must cease operation by December 2046, and the land must be restored to grassland. However, the company argues that solar technology has improved significantly, allowing farms to operate more efficiently and for longer periods.

Taiyo Power & Storage Limited states that extending the farm’s lifespan would:

🔹 Maximise renewable energy generation

🔹 Enhance sustainability efforts in Sefton

🔹 Ensure the best use of modern solar technology

At the end of its operational period, the solar panels will be removed, and the land can return to agricultural use.

This proposal is now under review by Sefton Council. If approved, the solar farm will provide decades of clean energy while helping the UK meet its climate goals.

Would you like to see more renewable energy projects in Formby? Let us know your thoughts!