Over 2,750 people have responded to a consultation on the proposed Whitestone solar farm in South Yorkshire, which would be Europe's largest if constructed. The 750MW project faces significant opposition from local councils, parish councils, community groups, MPs, and the South Yorkshire Mayor, with concerns centred on its impact on agricultural land and rural character. This consultation matters as the UK government pursues ambitious renewable energy targets to meet its clean power goals.

The solar farm was originally projected to cover 3,500 acres but applicants Whitestone Net Zero have reduced the area by a quarter following two consultation rounds. The project stretches across multiple villages including Ravenfield, Bramley, and Wickersley, and requires connection to the National Grid at Brinsworth. Key objections focus on the cumulative impact of the integrated development—including battery storage, substations, and cable routes—with critics arguing the proposed £18 million community fund over 60 years is inadequate compensation. The government is targeting 45–47 gigawatts of solar capacity by 2030, up from 21GW in autumn 2025, making large schemes like this central to achieving 95% clean electricity by 2030.