Can a solar installation also contribute to more nature and more experiences for the locals? Yes, it can! To get input into the planning process, we always consult the locals, and in June we went on a rubber boot tour of Djursland to look at the possibilities together with the district councils for the towns of Mørke and Hornslet.

Photo: Anders Holmgaard

In June, we held a rubber boot tour with the district councils of the two towns of Mørke and Hornslet to take a closer look at an area for a solar project between the two towns. The purpose of the trip was to look at the area together and discuss how the plant can benefit both citizens and nature.

One of the topics discussed was the desire for a path through the project area to connect the two cities in the future. In terms of nature, the plan is to improve the environment around two existing bogs, Mørke Kær and Viekæret, while making them more accessible by establishing shelter sites. This way, local scout associations and other nature enthusiasts can use the area for activities and trips.

During the tour, a first draft of the project area prepared in collaboration with the consultancy Urland was presented. The plan shows how the solar cells can be placed while creating space for paths and nature areas. However, there is still room for adjustments so that we can take local input into account.

Local value creation in renewable energy projects

When we work with renewable energy projects such as solar panels or wind turbines, it is important for us to create value for the local community and nature. Those who live close to a plant should also get something positive out of it, because it strengthens the project’s raison d’être and also helps change the narrative of what it means to be a neighbor to green energy.

We adapt our local value creation efforts to the individual project and the area where it will be built. This can be done in several ways, such as through local co-ownership, establishing funds for the benefit of the local community and developing the area in general so that it can contribute more nature and recreational experiences.

Next steps for Hornslet-Mørke Sol

Hornslet-Mørke Sol is in the development phase, and the next step is a dialogue meeting on October 22nd in Mørke Sports Center, where the towns’ citizens will have the opportunity to work on the project together with us at Momentum. We need input on how we can utilize the site-specific qualities that can give the project a clear local anchoring. Our ongoing collaboration with the district councils will ensure that we make the right prioritization of efforts and considerations that will be presented at the dialogue meeting when we update our project application later this year.

The deadline for submitting the final project application to Syddjurs Municipality is expected to be in the first quarter of 2025.

More information can be found at: https://hornsletmoerkesol.dk/