A large energy project connecting Morocco to the UK has raised concerns for residents of Devon in the southwest region, according to the BBC.
The project would bring solar and wind energy from Morocco to the UK via 2,500-mile cables, affecting the Devon coast.
Tony Sloan, 76, and his wife Ann, 75, built their retirement home in Devon, which is now threatened by the proposed Xlinks project.
Locals, like the Sloans, fear noise, lights, lorries, and construction will disturb their quiet area for years.
Farmer David Lomas, 69, could lose 20% of his productive land to the project and expressed concerns over long-term disruptions.
Xlinks CEO James Humfrey highlighted the project’s significance for UK energy security and efforts to reduce carbon emissions.
The project, costing GBP 22-24 billion, aims to provide green energy for 7 million homes by the early 2030s.
Humfrey assured residents that construction disruptions would be minimized, with underground cables installed in 1 km sections.
Xlinks plans to use temporary roads to limit traffic on public roads and is working to address local concerns.
The project would also create new electricity infrastructure in Devon, with work expected to last up to six years.
Local farmer Lomas criticized the project’s scale, calling it a “crazy idea” to bring energy from Morocco to the UK.
Despite concerns, the UK government declared the project a nationally significant infrastructure, crucial for future energy needs. Meanwhile, Humfrey stressed the project’s potential to drive global renewable energy transmission and reduce CO2 emissions worldwide.
Devon residents remain divided, as the project would result in up to 545 daily vehicle movements during construction.
Xlinks has support from shareholders, the Moroccan government, and banks, with plans to fund the project privately.
The UK government has emphasized its commitment to becoming a clean energy superpower through investments in renewable projects.
As planning continues, Xlinks has pledged to work closely with the local community to address their concerns and minimize impact.
The BBC reported that this would be the world’s longest electricity transmission cable, using tried and tested technology.
The project could take several years for approval; the final decision is down to the secretary of state for energy.