THE BRIEF

Securing planning permission for a solar energy development.

Orbit Communications supported Balance Power over a two-year programme to secure planning consent for the Over Rankeilour Solar Farm near Cupar.

As a major development, the proposed 29.9MW scheme comprising around 58,000 solar panels required a comprehensive communications, stakeholder engagement and public affairs strategy to address significant local opposition and build support ahead of determination by Fife Council.

Our Approach

  • Delivered an integrated public affairs, public relations, digital and design campaign to support the planning application from consultation through to committee determination.
  • Led an extensive stakeholder and community engagement programme with local residents, elected representatives, businesses and community organisations, ensuring concerns were addressed openly and transparently.
  • Developed all communications materials, including the project website, consultation exhibitions, briefing papers, media content and campaign collateral, translating complex technical information into clear, accessible messaging.
  • Built positive relationships with regional media and secured influential third-party endorsements, including support from Fife Chamber of Commerce and local organisations.
  • Coordinated the final committee engagement strategy, preparing briefing materials for councillors and demonstrating how feedback had shaped the proposals.

Outputs & Outcomes

  • Built stakeholder confidence in the proposals through sustained, transparent engagement over the two-year programme.
  • Helped counter local misinformation and opposition by communicating the project’s benefits and technical details clearly and consistently.
  • Demonstrated broad support for the development through positive stakeholder relationships and influential third-party endorsements, including backing from Fife Chamber of Commerce and local organisations.
  • Secured planning permission from Fife Council’s North East Area Planning Committee by a decisive 10–3 vote.