THE firm behind a controversial plan to create a sprawling solar farm on open fields which separate two villages has defended its involvement in the community - after a document revealed it gave cash to a local school.
The site in question - which separates Grimethorpe and Cudworth - was put forward by clean energy solutions company Enviromena and comprises three land parcels the size of more than 100 football pitches.
Bosses from the firm said it could provide power for up to 25,000 homes per year but drew criticism recently when a Freedom of Information document confirmed it had paid cash to nearby Milefield Primary School.
The sum - which totalled £4,080 - paid for school trips and transport to and from the events.
The Grimethorpe Solar Farm Campaign Group, which submitted the FOI, said the payment did not seem ‘ethical’ given planning permission - which is being sought - is yet to be given.
A statement said: “Given that Milefield are a ‘neighbours notified’ on the planning application, and Enviromena are not local and have no parent or governor attachment to the school, I submitted an FOI request.
“I find it odd that Milefield were approached by one of our campaigners early in 2024 and they were quite clear that they had no objections, despite parents expressing concern at noise, pollution and loss of green space.
“Whilst it’s not unusual for companies to provide community funding as part of any agreed planning application, this funding is prior to the application being considered.
“It’s not unusual, but to give money in advance doesn’t seem ethical to me.
“They can - of course - provide community funding as part of the planning conditions, but this is somewhat premature.”
However, Lee Adams, Enviromena’s chief commercial officer, hit back at the campaign group’s stance and told the Chronicle that the firm’s payment allowed disadvantaged pupils to attend events which they would not have been able to.
“Enviromena has proudly sponsored pupils at Milefield Primary School to help cover the costs of educational school trips, including transport and entry fees,” he added.
“The purpose of this contribution was to ensure that more pupils, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, were able to participate.
“This funding was offered transparently and provided prior to any planning permission being granted.
“Supporting local communities is a core part of how we operate as a responsible renewable energy developer.
“Our community contributions are made openly, with appropriate oversight and accountability and are entirely separate from the statutory planning process.
“They are consistent with established industry good practice, which encourages meaningful community engagement around renewable energy projects.
“In addition, we are engaging with local schools to develop longer-term educational initiatives focused on renewable energy and the natural environment.
“This programme will run at schools nearby our projects and reflects our commitment to encouraging young people to consider careers in the renewable energy sector.
“Beyond Milefield, several other causes across the region have benefited from our support, including through direct funding and our partnership with Red Sky Foundation and its nationwide defibrillator programme.
“We remain committed to acting transparently, responsibly, and in the best interests of the communities in which we work.”
Tom Banham, chief executive of HCAT, which Milefield Primary School is part of, told the Chronicle: “As a school and trust we welcome donations and sponsorship from businesses and external organisations that support our pupils and help enhance their educational experiences.
“Any contributions received are used solely to benefit children and do not influence or impact any statutory or formal processes connected to the school.”
