Solar PV

Context

When the Feed In Tarriff for solar PV projects was announced in the Climate Change Act 2008, there was a rush of interest, particularly among renewable energy companies contacting landowners for suitable land to lease.

Project

Clinton Devon Estates was keen to understand how solar PV would help them take a step towards greater energy autonomy and appointed Aardvark Environment Matters Ltd to guide us through the early proposals, planning, installation and connection to the grid of a small solar PV operation.

In December 2011, Clinton Devon Estates new solar PV (photovoltaic) array began feeding into the National Grid. It has been built on one of the Estate farms in East Devon and has the capacity to produce enough electricity to power around 11 households. It is the Estates’ first experience of solar PV and has provided us with valuable knowledge in our ongoing quest to find alternative forms of energy to meet our future requirements.

Do what you can to elevate your profession. It is an honourable one

– Robert Lipscomb, Steward 1865 – 1892
Handing over something more valuable than we have today,

– Estates ethos
…and the Lord Clinton was, by the whole Council, brought to the King’s presence, who after like thanks was given, was pleased that he should be made High Admiral of England and one of his Privy Council…

– Official record of appointment of 9th Baron Clinton as Lord High Admiral for life on 4th May 1550
We are trustees for life of the countryside

– 22nd Baron Clinton, 2002
But our power for good or evil in this world’s affairs in a countryside is enormous

– Robert Lipscomb, Steward 1865 – 1892