A major business is proposing to become more eco-friendly at its Isle of Wight base — by installing a solar farm.

On land owned by GKN Aerospace Services, in Whippingham, the company is hoping to install roughly 3,432 solar panels.

Planning documents submitted to the Isle of Wight Council, by agents BCM, say it is the aerospace company's intention to use the renewable energy generated to offset energy demands.

Energy not needed by GKN could go to the local electrical distribution network.

The field of fallow grass is next to the cricket ground on Beatrice Avenue and behind the Whippingham Technology Park.

Isle of Wight County Press: The proposed site, highlighted.The proposed site, highlighted. (Image: Google Maps)

It is proposed a wildflower mix would be sown under the ground-mounted panels.

The solar panels would cover 5,885m² of ground and stand between 2.7m and 3m tall.

It could take between four and six months to construct.

Isle of Wight County Press: The proposed site layout.The proposed site layout. (Image: GKN)

An electric substation, 8ft tall fence, and access track are also proposed to be built into the site.

There is no set end date for the site but BCM say the operational period of the panels is typically 40 years and at the end of that time the land would be restored to grassland.

You can view the plans, 23/00630/FUL, on the council's planning register. Comments can be submitted until June 5.