THE company behind a proposed solar farm near Crewkerne has announced it is to hold a series of public consultations.

Solar photovoltaics (PV) specialist Greentech is inviting local residents to view the proposals for a 19,000 MWh solar farm at Mahe Farm, at Wayford, near Crewkerne.

A spokesperson for the company said it has "extensive experience and knowledge in designing, building, maintaining and operating solar farms".

It is bringing forward plans for the solar farm on land east of Chard Lane, north of Wayford, on 23 hectares (57 acres) of farmland.

The company is expected to submitting a planning application to Somerset Council later in the summer.

The proposals can be viewed in person, along with the opportunity to meet the Greentech team and find out more at Clapton and Wayford Village Hall, Clapton Road, Crewkerne TA18 8PS on:

Wednesday, July 12, from 3pm to 6pm;

Tuesday, July 18, from 4pm to 8pm;

and Wednesday, July 19, from 12.30pm to 4.30pm.

Information about the proposals is also available on the project website at www.mahefarmsolarfarm.co.uk along with a copy of the materials which will be presented at the public exhibition to view or download.

The project team are inviting local residents and stakeholders to give their feedback on the proposals, which can be submitted either via www.mahefarmsolarfarm.co.uk by email at info@mahefarmsolarfarm.co.uk or by writing to Freepost SEC NEWGATE UK LOCAL (Mahe Farm Solar Farm). The team can also be contacted by telephone on 01460 206 255 (local rates apply).

The proposal will consist of rows of solar PV panels, mounted on steel framework, running east to west.

The site itself comprises of eight modest-sized fields which are used for sheep grazing, and the project has been designed to allow for continued agricultural use.

The 19,000 MWh of renewable energy per year that Mahe Solar Farm is expected to generate is the equivalent annual consumption of approximately 6,500 homes.

The spokesperson added: "At a time when energy security is becoming increasingly important, this project would generate muchneeded renewable energy for the local electricity grid.

"Connection to the local electricity distribution network would be made via an underground cable."