SOLAR panels could be installed on a new roof at a Somerset factory run by potato giant, Branston.

The firm, which supplies spuds to the likes of Tesco and other retail giants, has applied to Somerset Council for permission to install panels on its premises at Upton Lane, in Seavington St Michael, near Ilminster.

The move is part of plans for the firm to achieve net-zero status, with similar schemes also in progress at plants in Lincoln and in Scotland.

“Branston Ltd have been operating from the site at Seavington St Michael since 1997 and have invested considerably to-date in improvements and expansion of the facilities on the site,” the application said.

It went on: “An assessment of the condition of the existing roofs was carried out in 2021 identifying the need for either replacement of roof coverings or significant remedial works to be carried out.

“Branston Ltd have an initiative to achieve Net-Zero to mitigate the impacts of climate change and as such are investing across all three operational sites in PV installations.

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“This application is for the re-roofing of parts of the existing factory where roofs are beyond economic repair and for the installation of PV arrays to support Branston Ltd’s goal of achieving net-zero.

“In addition, the application includes the erection of a screening structure to the existing unsightly water tanks located externally.”

The plans outlined how Branston “makes a significant contribution towards the social and economic value of the area”.

“Since taking occupation of the site Branston Ltd have made considerable investment into their facilities generating employment in the area,” it added.

“Branston take their social responsibilities seriously and continue to look for ways of reducing the impact of their operations on the environment including the re-use of recycled process water and the installation of solar PV for the generation of electricity for use within their production processes.

“This application seeks approval for the continued investment in improving the built fabric and thermal performance of their buildings and the installation of further PV panels to increase the output of renewable energy for use on site.”

A diagram of the planned panels at the factory near Ilminster. Picture: Branston/Somerset Council

And it said the work would improve the appearance of the factory site.

“The external appearance of the buildings will be enhanced through the improvements to the existing roof sheeting which shows signs of deterioration,” the plan said.

“The PV panels will make a clear statement of intent that the applicant takes their on site renewable energy generation seriously and is entirely appropriate for the building use.

“The small enclosure to the water tanks will enhance the appearance of this otherwise untidy aspect of the building’s exterior. The screen will be constructed using profiled metal cladding panels to reflect the external cladding of the existing buildings.”

For more details on the scheme, and to comment, log on to somerset.gov.uk and search application reference 25/02072/FUL.

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