Solar panels face stiff opposition

Posted by Robert Shields

The installation of a solar PV array is causing consternation for residents, as they protest that the fitting of the panels could lead to there being a blocking of light.

Chapel-en-le-Frith residents said at a parish council meeting that there were an increasing number of panels installed on traditional roofs which were disfiguring them and leaving them looking ugly.

Recently, a solar farm in Wales had to fight off opposition from residents who said that the countryside would be devalued by the fact that solar panels were to be installed in fields near their homes.

Parish councillor for Chapel-en-le-Frith Mike Smith told the Buxton Advertiser: "An energy measure that is meant to make a positive contribution to the environment is actually having a negative impact, because some of the panels are being placed on traditional roofs which are in highly visible locations."

However, residents should also be aware that there are huge environmental and economic benefits to be had from increasing solar power use.