Plans Unveiled for the UK’s Largest Solar Farm: The 840MW Botley West Project Photovolt Development Partners has officially submitted plans for the ambitious 840MW Botley West Solar Project in Oxfordshire to the Planning Inspectorate. If approved, this groundbreaking solar farm will generate enough renewable energy to power 330,000 homes, equating to every household in Oxfordshire. Declared a climate emergency zone in 2019, Oxfordshire also has one of the UK’s most carbon-intensive power grids. The Botley West project is poised to revolutionize the region’s energy landscape by significantly increasing green energy capacity, creating jobs, and promoting biodiversity. The site will transform intensively farmed land into a hub for renewable energy, grazing pastures, and wildlife habitat. Why Botley West Matters: Massive Environmental Impact: Aims for a 70% biodiversity net gain, with new hedgerows, grazing pastures, tree planting, and protection of ancient woodlands. Community-Centric: Years of consultation have resulted in new walking paths, greater distances from residential areas, and a financial benefits package for local communities. Public Support: Research by Public First reveals 66% of Oxfordshire residents support solar farms within 3 miles of their homes, with 82% of Britons backing renewable energy expansion. Mark Owen-Lloyd, Director at Photovolt, expressed optimism: “Botley West will be instrumental in achieving the UK’s Net Zero goals and mitigating the effects of climate change. This £800 million project is a testament to our commitment to sustainable development and community engagement.” Once operational, the solar farm will not only power homes but also create skilled jobs, support local businesses, and contribute to the fight against climate change. The Planning Inspectorate will now review the proposal through a thorough evidence-based approach as outlined in the Planning Act 2008. Highlights of Botley West Solar Project: Power Output: 840MW, energizing 330,000 homes. Investment: £800 million, creating hundreds of jobs. Biodiversity Gains: 70%, with new trees, hedgerows, and wildlife habitat. Community Impact: Improved walking paths and financial benefits for locals. This transformative project is a beacon of what’s possible when innovation meets sustainability, paving the way for a greener, brighter future. #SolarPower #RenewableEnergy #Sustainability #ClimateAction #Biodiversity #CleanEnergy #GreenJobs #NetZero #BotleyWest #Oxfordshire
Rio Tinto Taps Bechtel for Groundbreaking U.S. Solar Project
Rio Tinto and Bechtel Join Forces for a Sustainable Future with Utah Solar Project Bechtel has been chosen by Rio Tinto to lead the design and construction of the 25MW Copperton Phase 2 Solar project in Utah, a key step towards powering operations at the Kennecott mine—one of the world’s largest open-pit copper mines. This groundbreaking partnership marks Bechtel’s first venture with Rio Tinto in renewable energy, emphasizing both companies’ commitment to sustainable solutions and Rio Tinto’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. The Copperton Phase 2 Solar project represents a bold move toward greener mining practices. Scott Austin, Bechtel’s General Manager of Renewables & Clean Power, shared: “We are thrilled to expand our long-standing relationship with Rio Tinto into clean energy. This project embodies climate commitments in action, and we’re excited to deliver this innovative renewable power solution.” When completed in late 2025, this solar farm will cover 210 acres, utilizing 71,000 high-efficiency bifacial solar modules to generate clean energy. Bechtel plans to leverage advanced digital delivery methods and cutting-edge autonomous technologies for optimal construction and commissioning. At its peak, the project will create 100 local construction jobs, boosting the regional economy. Rio Tinto Kennecott Managing Director, Nate Foster, added: “Expanding our solar farm is another critical step in reducing our carbon footprint. Alongside initiatives like closing coal-fired power plants, deploying electric vehicles underground, and transitioning to renewable diesel, we’re proving that sustainable practices can go hand-in-hand with resource production to benefit both our company and community.” This new 25MW facility will sit adjacent to Kennecott’s existing 5MW solar plant, enhancing the mine’s renewable energy capacity. Highlights of the Copperton Phase 2 Solar Project: Supports Rio Tinto’s decarbonization efforts and Kennecott mine operations. 71,000 bifacial solar modules spread across 210 acres. Incorporates advanced technologies and digital methods for efficient delivery. Creates 100 local construction jobs at peak. This partnership showcases the mining industry’s ability to integrate clean energy solutions while driving economic growth and community benefits. #CleanEnergy #Sustainability #SolarPower #MiningInnovation #Decarbonization #Bechtel #RioTinto #RenewableEnergy
Norbida UK Sharing This Exciting Opportunity: Cubico Launches Public Consultation For Frodsham Project
Cubico Sustainable Investments has launched the second phase of public consultation for the 130MW Frodsham Solar Farm, located north of Frodsham in Cheshire, England. This project is a step forward for clean energy, aiming to power over 40,000 homes by 2029 and align with the vision for a Net Zero North West by 2040. Frodsham Solar also supports Cheshire West and Chester’s goal to reach net zero by 2045, contributing to a sustainable future for the community. Clean Energy Vision Frodsham Solar’s plans feature ground-mounted solar panels combined with a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), ensuring reliable energy for peak demand periods. Located alongside the existing 50MW Frodsham wind farm and near the Protos energy hub, the project will contribute clean electricity directly into the regional grid via the Frodsham substation. Additionally, a “private-wire connection” will enable power generated on-site to be supplied directly to local industries, helping to meet high regional demand while reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Enhancing the Local Landscape and Community This project goes beyond energy production; it includes 4.5 km of new paths, improved public rights of way, and biodiversity support initiatives. Plus, Cubico is committing over £2 million to a Community Fund to support local initiatives, including addressing fuel poverty, job training, and other community-driven needs. Get Involved! After an initial consultation in June and July 2023, Cubico is now inviting feedback on its revised plans from 14 November until 19 December 2024. Local residents can participate by attending information events, completing online feedback forms, or joining a virtual session. Feedback is crucial for shaping the project to meet community needs, and Cubico encourages all interested individuals to share their insights. Upcoming Information Events: Cubico will be hosting five in-person events and an online webinar, allowing attendees to learn more and speak with the project team directly: Christchurch Hall, Weston Point – Monday, 25 Nov, 3pm–7pm Helsby Community Centre – Tuesday, 26 Nov, 2pm–6:30pm Elton Community Centre – Friday, 29 Nov, 3pm–7pm Frodsham Community Centre – Saturday, 30 Nov, 1:30pm–5:30pm and Monday, 2 Dec, 2:30pm–6:30pm Online Community Webinar via Zoom – Wednesday, 4 Dec, 6pm–7:30pm (register on the project website) How to Share Feedback: Community members can submit feedback by filling out the online form on the project website www.frodshamsolar.co.uk, by attending an event, or by contacting Cubico via email (info@frodshamsolar.co.uk) or by writing to their freepost address (FREEPOST FRODSHAM CONSULTATION). The deadline for feedback is Thursday, 19 December 2024. Frodsham Solar Development Manager Mark Flaherty shared, “This project is an exciting opportunity to strengthen the region’s low-carbon industry, support clean energy goals, and reduce energy costs. We’re eager to build on our community relationships and encourage everyone to get involved.” Join us in shaping a brighter, cleaner future for Cheshire! #CleanEnergy #FrodshamSolar #NetZeroNorthWest #SustainableFuture #CommunityEngagement #SolarEnergy #GreenEnergy #BatteryStorage #Cubico
Island Green Power Advances Ambitious 500MW Solar Project With Community Consultation
Island Green Power Launches Public Consultation for Ambitious 500MW East Pye Solar Farm in Norfolk Island Green Power (IGP) is taking a significant step towards a sustainable future by launching a public consultation for its proposed 500MW East Pye solar farm in South Norfolk, England. If approved, this innovative project will transform land near Long Stratton into a vibrant source of renewable energy, featuring cutting-edge solar panels and a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS). A Clean Energy Revolution The East Pye solar farm is poised to make a considerable impact on the local and national energy landscape. With its robust generation capacity, the facility will be connected to the National Grid through a new substation and the existing 400kV overhead line that runs from Norwich Main to Bramford. The BESS will play a crucial role in optimizing energy flow by storing excess energy produced during sunny periods and releasing it during peak demand, effectively reducing the risk of power outages and contributing to a more resilient energy grid. Engaging the Community Since the East Pye Solar project is classified as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP), it requires a Development Consent Order (DCO). This means that the planning process will include multiple stages of public consultation, allowing IGP to gather valuable feedback from the community, local authorities, and other stakeholders. This input is vital for shaping the project to ensure it aligns with local needs and aspirations. Samantha Jones, Project Development Manager for East Pye Solar, expressed enthusiasm about the initiative, stating, “We are excited to bring forward these plans for East Pye Solar, which, if built, will generate clean ‘homegrown’ electricity for homes and businesses. This project supports the national ambition to achieve net zero while securing a reliable, affordable source of electricity.” A Commitment to Local Benefits IGP is dedicated to engaging with the local community throughout the development process. The public consultation is now open and will run until Friday, December 6, 2024. IGP is eager to hear from residents and stakeholders, as their feedback will be instrumental in refining the project’s proposals. This collaborative approach aims to ensure that the final designs not only fulfill the energy ambitions of the project but also provide tangible benefits to the local area, such as environmental enhancements and direct funding for local causes. Join the Conversation Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to participate in the consultation process, share their views, and help shape the future of renewable energy in Norfolk. This project is not just about generating electricity; it’s about fostering community engagement, supporting local initiatives, and contributing to a greener, more sustainable future for all. As we embark on this journey toward cleaner energy, your voice matters. Join Island Green Power in building a sustainable future for Norfolk and beyond! #IslandGreenPower #EastPyeSolar #RenewableEnergy #SustainableFuture #PublicConsultation #CleanEnergy #SolarPower #NetZero #CommunityEngagement #BatteryStorage #NorfolkEnergyTransition
ISG And Anglian Water Join Forces With New Solar PPA To Power A Greener Future
Powering Sustainability: ISG Renewables Secures 15-Year PPA with Anglian Water for UK Solar Energy ISG Renewables, a joint venture between Innova and Schroders Greencoat, has secured a 15-year corporate power purchase agreement (CPPA) with Anglian Water for the entire renewable output of its 28MW Elms Farm solar project in the UK. This agreement represents a significant leap forward in both partners’ commitment to sustainability and renewable energy sourcing. Under the CPPA, Anglian Water will receive traceable, 100% renewable energy from the Elms Farm solar farm, currently under construction and expected to go live later this year. Once operational, the site will produce 29,000 megawatt hours annually—a volume of green energy that will meet Anglian Water’s electricity needs for the next 15 years, reinforcing their efforts to reduce carbon emissions and operational costs sustainably. A unique element of this partnership is the power balancing and shaping services provided by EDF, which collaborates with ISG Renewables and Anglian Water to ensure a consistent, reliable energy supply through licensed supplier SSE. EDF’s involvement not only enhances power reliability but also supports grid stability by aligning production with demand, a crucial factor in corporate renewables. Andy Peyman, Head of Energy Sales at Innova, expressed pride in the partnership, noting, “We’re delighted to have worked with Anglian Water on this PPA, especially during challenging times for the energy markets. The PPA was critical for the site’s progress, and we look forward to bringing the solar farm to energisation soon. A big thanks to Anglian Water for their commitment and to EDF for providing balancing and shaping.” This CPPA has not only driven Elms Farm’s financial close but is paving the way for a more resilient and sustainable energy future for both the UK and Anglian Water. Here’s to corporate partnerships that build a cleaner, greener tomorrow! #ISGRenewables #AnglianWater #SolarEnergy #RenewablePower #CorporatePPA #ElmsFarm #SustainableFuture #UKRenewables #EDF #GreenEnergy #ClimateAction #EnergyPartnership
EBRD Fuels Croatia’s Green Future With 100MW Solar Project Investment
Croatia’s Solar Future Shines Bright! The EBRD Backs HEP with €32M Loan for 100MW Solar Farm The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is powering up Croatia’s renewable energy landscape with a major loan of up to €32 million to fund a new solar farm led by Hrvatska Elektroprivreda (HEP), Croatia’s national energy company. This solar farm, boasting around 100MW of installed capacity, is a huge step forward in HEP’s journey toward decarbonization. As Croatia aims for ambitious renewable energy targets by 2030, the Korlat Solar Power Plant is set to become HEP’s largest solar investment to date, and it’s ready to make a significant impact on the nation’s energy mix. Grzegorz Zielinski, EBRD Head of Energy Europe, emphasized the importance of this initiative: “We’re proud to support HEP’s renewable energy investments in Croatia. The Korlat project underscores the critical role of renewables as a sustainable pathway to replacing fossil fuels, helping Croatia meet its 2030 renewable targets.” As a state-owned entity, HEP plays a crucial role in Croatia’s energy ecosystem by generating, transmitting, and distributing electricity, alongside providing district heating and gas services. This solar investment strengthens HEP’s renewable portfolio while reinforcing EBRD’s commitment to sustainable energy and the region’s long-term decarbonization goals. Together, EBRD and HEP are making strides to reduce fossil fuel reliance and support a cleaner, greener future for Croatia. Let’s celebrate this step forward for European renewable energy! #EBRD #HEP #RenewableEnergy #Croatia #SolarPower #Decarbonization #GreenEnergy #KorlatSolarPlant #SustainableFuture #CleanEnergy #EuropeanRenewables #ClimateAction
Better Energy Lights The Way With New Solar Park In Sweden
Better Energy’s 24MW Studsvik Solar Park Now Live, Powering Swedish Sustainability Better Energy’s 24MW Studsvik Solar Park in Sweden is now officially connected to the grid! This solar park represents a leap forward for Swedish renewable energy, as it supplies green power to top companies committed to sustainability. Through Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), Vestre, Scan Global Logistics, and Nolato will be sourcing clean energy from Studsvik over the next 10 years. Leaders from these companies emphasize their commitment to a sustainable future: Bjorn Fjellstad, CEO at Vestre: “By buying power from renewable projects, we’re making green energy more accessible and working toward our goal of becoming a net producer of energy by 2030.” Martin Andersen, Global Head of Sustainability & ESG at Scan Global Logistics: “This is now the second Better Energy solar park we’re partnering with. The green electricity we procure from Studsvik supports our sustainability goals and gives us clearer control over energy costs.” Christer Wahlquist, CEO of Nolato: “Sourcing green electricity from Studsvik is the right choice for our business and the environment, helping us become a more sustainable company.” Andreas Brännström, Managing Director of Better Energy Sweden, expressed the bigger vision: “The Swedish energy sector must work together to transition away from fossil-based energy. Our partnerships with PPA collaborators, Studsvik, Senergia, and Vattenfall, demonstrate how we can collectively drive the Swedish energy transition forward.” The new solar park showcases the power of collaboration in the renewable energy sector and the commitment of these companies to a sustainable future. Let’s keep pushing for clean energy and supporting projects like Studsvik that make a positive impact! #BetterEnergy #StudsvikSolarPark #Sweden #RenewableEnergy #GreenEnergy #SustainableFuture #PPAPartnership #CleanEnergy #EnergyTransition #SolarPower #ClimateAction
Windel And Recurrent Invite Your Input On Exciting UK PV Project
Fosse Green Energy’s Solar & Storage Project Consultation! Windel Energy and Recurrent Energy are excited to announce a statutory consultation for the proposed Fosse Green Energy solar and storage project, located in the picturesque southwest of Lincoln, England. This innovative initiative aims to both export and import electricity to the national electricity transmission network, enhancing the region’s energy infrastructure. Key to this project is the planned underground cable connection to the proposed new National Grid Substation near Navenby, which is currently under a separate planning application by National Grid. The consultation follows an initial non-statutory exercise in Autumn 2023, where we shared our preliminary study area and two grid connection corridor options. We’ve listened closely to community feedback and, as a result, we’re unveiling updated plans that not only focus on energy production but also emphasize community benefits. Some of the exciting proposals include: Creating permissive paths that connect local villages to Public Rights of Way Planting community orchards to enhance local greenery Enhancing biodiversity across the project site Establishing a community liaison group for ongoing engagement and feedback from local representatives Lloyd Sandles, Projects Director at Windel Energy, expressed the importance of community input, stating: “The feedback we received at our first consultation has been invaluable in shaping our plans. We have carefully refined a preferred grid connection corridor to minimize social and environmental impact.” James Whitney, Business Development Manager at Recurrent Energy, added: “The solar panels and associated infrastructure will occupy only a small percentage of the land, allowing us to focus on planting and landscaping that benefits the community.” We invite everyone to share their thoughts on how Fosse Green Energy can support local communities effectively. Your insights are crucial as we move forward in this collaborative effort to promote sustainable energy solutions in Lincolnshire. Join us in shaping a greener future! #FosseGreenEnergy #SolarPower #RenewableEnergy #CommunityEngagement #Sustainability #Lincolnshire #CleanEnergy #GreenFuture #WindelEnergy #RecurrentEnergy #EnergyTransition
Trailstone Secures Key Role In Balancing Portuguese Solar Power Grid
Trailstone Partners with Eurowind Energy to Enhance Renewable Energy in Portugal! Trailstone is excited to announce its partnership with Eurowind Energy, providing physical balancing and aggregation services for their 22MWp Triana Solar PV asset and the newly constructed 2MWp Vale Verde UPP in Portugal. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in Trailstone’s mission to strengthen its presence in the rapidly growing Portuguese renewable energy market. Ante Pogacic, Global Head of Power & Renewables at Trailstone, emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating: “Portugal is a strategic market with tremendous renewable growth where we can provide renewable asset owners with unique proprietary risk management and energy trading optimization solutions.” This highlights Trailstone’s commitment to delivering innovative strategies that support the expansion of renewable energy in the region. Joaquim Pinto, Country Manager for Portugal at Eurowind Energy, echoed this sentiment, sharing: “Starting with Trailstone as our market agent for Triana PV Park and the Vale Verde UPP is a new chapter for Eurowind in Portugal. The track record and expertise of Trailstone in the route-to-market area give us the comfort of focusing on what we do best: developing, building, and operating renewable energy assets across various technologies.” As both companies join forces, they are paving the way for a sustainable energy future in Portugal, leveraging their combined strengths to optimize renewable energy production and management. This partnership exemplifies the potential for collaboration in accelerating the transition to clean energy solutions. Stay tuned as Trailstone and Eurowind lead the charge in enhancing Portugal’s renewable energy landscape! #Trailstone #EurowindEnergy #RenewableEnergy #Portugal #SolarPower #Partnership #CleanEnergy #Sustainability #EnergyTrading #GreenFuture
Greening Secures Major Win With 60MWac Solar Project In The US
Greening Wins 60MW Solar Contract in Indiana to Power Major Tech Company! Exciting news from the renewable energy world! Greening has been awarded the EPC contract to construct a 60MWac photovoltaic power plant in Jasper County, Indiana. This solar project will cover a sprawling 452 acres (183 hectares) and deliver clean, renewable energy to a major technology company—though the end customer’s name remains under wraps for now. The energy generated by the Jasper County Solar Project will be sold through a Renewable Energy Certificate (REC) agreement signed with the tech company, helping to support their sustainability goals in the region. The project is a major win for both Greening and the end customer, contributing to Indiana’s growing renewable energy footprint. Ignacio Salcedo, CEO of Greening, celebrated the achievement, stating: “For Greening, this project solidifies the success of our commitment to the North American market, which now represents 40% of our total portfolio. Our growing presence in the US market is one of the pillars of our strategic plan for 2024-2026, which we presented to the market last May.” Construction on the plant is set to begin in the fourth quarter of 2024, with completion expected by the end of 2025. This marks another major step forward in Greening’s ambitious expansion plans, positioning the company as a leader in the U.S. renewable energy sector. As Greening continues to grow its clean energy portfolio across North America, this project will help fuel a more sustainable future for both businesses and communities alike. #SolarPower #RenewableEnergy #CleanEnergy #Greening #Indiana #Sustainability #SolarProjects #GreenTech #EnergyTransition #REC #ClimateAction