Plans for a large 43MW solar farm on farmland between Harrogate and Ripon are set for approval.
Councillors at North Yorkshire Council will be recommended to approve the scheme on 66 hectares of land near the villages of Wormald Green, Bishop Monkton and Burton Leonard when they meet next week.
The scheme could provide enough energy to power 12,000 homes.
As well as ground-mounted solar panels, the plans include access to the A61, internal access tracks, a substation, two power stations, pole mounted CCTV, fencing and landscaping.
The application from Harmony WG Solar Limited has attracted five responses in support from the local public, but 38 objections.
The objections include the scheme’s use of arable land capable of producing food for animals or humans and the solar farm’s negative impact on the landscape.
Others have pointed out that similar solar schemes have already been approved in the area.
In 2021, a 50MW scheme was given the go-ahead on farmland at nearby South Stainley, although the solar farm is yet to be built.
Councillors will discuss the application meet the strategic planning committee meets on Tuesday.
A report to councillors concludes: “The proposed solar farm is considered to be acceptable in principle and meets the requirements of local and national planning policies.
“There is strong national support for renewable energy schemes, as set out in national guidance and policy documents.
“The provision of renewable energy attracts substantial weight in favour of the development and biodiversity enhancements attract moderate weight in favour.”
A community benefit fund would be set up if the plans are approved.
This would allocate £20,000 a year for the lifetime of the scheme to support local facilities and projects.
Harrogate choir named national finalists for third consecutive year
Chairman admits 'deep disappointment' but urges faith in Harrogate Town
Winter Olympics: Harrogate man captains Trinidad and Tobago bobsleigh team
Michelin-starred chef Marco Pierre White visits Harrogate restaurant
Reasons behind the inevitability of above-inflation council tax rise at North Yorkshire Council
Harrogate named among world's most welcoming places
Police search for Ripon glasses thief
Harrogate bus firm celebrates one year since launch of all-electric fleet
Community invited to give feedback on plans for new homes in Scotton
Tributes paid to former Ripon cricketer Peter Squires
Ripon's festive tractor run raises £7,000 for charity
Almost 300 Harrogate NHS patients faced two-month wait for cancer treatment last year
Gaming festival returns to Harrogate for third year
Record number of Ripon pupils receive Oxbridge offers
Where are the best places for afternoon tea in Harrogate?
Which venues have signed up for Harrogate Restaurant Week?
Harrogate powerlifter selected to represent Team England at Commonwealth Games
Pannal girls' teams enjoy special matchday experience at Manchester City
PR skills in high demand as Harrogate small business event sells out
Inspirational Ripon woman nominated for Yorkshire Choice Award following fundraising feat
