Press Release
Reform UK Raises Concerns Over Solar Farms and Battery Storage Projects in North Yorkshire

Date: 23rd November 2024
Location: North Yorkshire

Reform UK has formally objected to the proposed battery storage facility at Bellmoor, South Kilvington, citing serious concerns about the environmental, financial, and societal impact of large-scale solar developments across North Yorkshire. Representing over 58,000 voters within the North Yorkshire Council boundary, the Party is calling for a reassessment of energy policies to avoid the risks highlighted in their submission.

Matthew Cooke, Interim Chairman of Reform UK’s Richmond and Northallerton Pilot Branch, said:

“While we support a balanced and sustainable approach to energy production, the unrelenting drive for large-scale solar farms is an impractical and short-sighted solution. Projects like Bellmoor pose genuine risks to food security, public health, and taxpayers’ money. North Yorkshire deserves energy policies grounded in common sense—not ideological fanaticism.”

Key Concerns Raised

1. Threat to Food Security
   Reform UK warns that the growing number of solar farms and battery storage facilities threatens agricultural land, with long-term implications for food production. With the UK already importing over 45% of its food, the Party argues that sacrificing farmland for industrial-scale energy projects is both reckless and unsustainable.
2. Cost and Inefficiency
   The Party highlights the inefficiency of solar energy in the UK, which has far less annual sunshine than countries like Spain. Additionally, the reliance on substantial taxpayer subsidies—such as the £1.5 billion allocated by the Labour Government in July—makes these projects a costly and ineffective use of public funds.
3. Environmental and Public Safety Risks
   The letter raises significant concerns about the safety of lithium battery storage, including fire risks and potential land and air contamination. Reform UK calls for thorough risk assessments and contingency plans for emergencies, particularly given the challenges of managing lithium battery fires and their associated toxic emissions.
4. Lack of Transparency
   The party has posed detailed questions to the Bellmoor consultation, focusing on the financial, environmental, and health implications of the project. Questions include how agricultural land will be restored post-project, risks posed to wildlife, and whether proper emergency response measures are in place.

A Call for Pragmatic Energy Policies

Reform UK reaffirms its support for renewable energy but stresses the need for practical solutions. Rooftop solar panels, offshore wind, nuclear power, and hydroelectric projects are identified as more effective and sustainable alternatives to large-scale solar farms.

“We are not opposed to modern technology or renewable energy,” Cooke added. “However, we must reject ill-conceived strategies that endanger our land, economy, and security. Common sense must prevail in North Yorkshire’s energy policies.”

Next Steps

Reform UK urges North Yorkshire Council officials to address the substantial risks raised in their objection and engage transparently with residents. The Party has pledged to hold decision-makers accountable for any negative consequences resulting from poorly considered energy projects.

For further details or media enquiries, please contact:

Matthew Cooke
Interim Chairman
Reform UK Pilot Branch, Richmond and Northallerton

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This press release reflects the views of Reform UK North Yorkshire and aims to inform the public and stakeholders of their position regarding solar farm and battery storage developments.

Download our Chairman’s letter in full