The UK’s Department for Energy Security and Net Zero has approved the Stonestreet Green Solar farm. This big solar photovoltaic project will be sited near Ashford in Kent. Today’s approval comes after a positive recommendation from the Planning Inspectorate, following an extensive six-month examination process. The project bolsters the UK’s renewable energy sector, providing much-needed clean electricity during ongoing global energy crises. It moves the country further toward its Clean Power 2030 goals.
The Stonestreet Green Solar project includes an extensive solar photovoltaic array with energy storage capacities. The project features an extraordinary 99.9 megawatt (MW) export capacity. When it comes online, it will generate enough electricity to power at least 42,000 homes. Further, it consists of vital infrastructure like transmission to make connection to the grid, so collected power can effectively be shared.
Environmental Impact
The environmental benefits of the Stonestreet Green Solar project are significant. It is expected to reduce over 34,000 tons of carbon emissions per year. By utilizing solar energy, the project actively helps to decrease the carbon emissions linked to conventional energy production.
Conor McNally, a director at Evolution Power, was hopeful that the project would have ripple effects beyond the connected microgrids.
“Evolution Power welcomes the decision by the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero to grant a development consent order for the Stonestreet Green Solar project, following a recommendation to approve from the Planning Inspectorate. Stonestreet Green Solar will make a significant contribution towards the UK’s Clean Power 2030 targets, whilst also providing 99.9MW of co-located battery storage capacity. We look forward to progressing the project in due course.” – Conor McNally, Evolution Power director.
Project Specifications
The new Stonestreet Green Solar project produces more than 50 MW energy. It includes co-located battery storage that totals its remarkable 99.9 MW in export capacity. This dual capability allows for optimal flexibility in energy management, providing both immediate power generation and storage for later use when demand peaks.
In today’s rapidly changing renewable energy landscape, integrating energy storage is imperative. This is essential to maintaining a balance of supply and demand which keeps the grid in a stable state. Equipping an Infrastructure of Opportunity This project does more than just provide clean energy, it strengthens the infrastructure needed to foster equitable and inclusive growth.
Next Steps
Having obtained the development consent, Evolution Power intends to continue with implementation of the project. This approval is seen as a significant milestone for renewable energy projects in the UK. It sets the stage for worthy, multimodal projects to continue to advance in the years to come.
