Should rural land be used to produce food or energy? It is a question that divides farmers nationwide, and is being debated on the Somerset Levels.
On ancient grazing pastures steel and silicon solar panels are being installed, taking thousands of acres of farmland out of food production.
Across the country, the new Energy Security Secretary, Ed Miliband, has already approved three huge controversial developments, covering 6,200 acres (2,500 hectares) of farmland.
And while some farmers see solar as offering financial stability, others fear the loss of the land that feeds us.
Mr Miliband wants to quadruple UK solar power, which he says will “make the UK a clean energy superpower.”
Some farmers are happy to rent their fields to the growing green energy industry.
Others are joining forces with campaigners fighting to keep farms for food.
“We’re losing so much of our farmland,” said Hugh Williams, of Somerset Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE).
“Once it has gone, the damage is done.”
So why do farmers agree to put their fields under silicon panels? And will it mean Britain has to import more food?
How much does solar pay?
Every week, Sam Small and her family turn down thousands of pounds of guaranteed income. They farm 400 acres on the Somerset Levels, five miles west of Glastonbury.
Read more: BBC
