East Dorset District Council has given permission to build a 24MW solar farm.

UK company Good Energy will develop the Mapperton Farm located near Sturminster Marshall, south England.

The construction of the facility, which is expected to generate enough electricity to power more than 6,000 homes, is scheduled to start later this year.

The company estimates the project will provide £35,000 per year to local communities.

A local electricity tariff will be also available to residents who live within 2km of the solar farm.

Hugo House from Good Energy said: “It’s great news that the planning committee has given consent for the solar farm, which will make a significant contribution towards Dorset’s renewable energy targets.”