RWE has energised its first operational solar farm in the UK with the 35MW Langford project in Devon now live.
The site is expected to produce around 49,500MWh of electricity annually, enough to power the equivalent of over 15,000 typical UK homes.
Langford Solar Farm will be complemented by a co-located 35MW battery energy storage system currently under construction and due for completion in the coming weeks.
The combined hybrid facility will maximise grid usage and is part of a wider RWE programme to deliver nearly 530MW of solar and 105MW of battery capacity across 11 sites in England.
RWE said Langford will help cut more than 25,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions per year during its 40-year lifetime, equivalent to the annual output of over 15,500 cars.
RWE Renewables Europe & Australia chief executive Katja Wünschel said: “The energisation of Langford Solar Farm marks an important step for RWE’s solar ambitions in the UK, and is a testament to the dedication, expertise, and passion of our team.
“This achievement reinforces our commitment to supporting the energy transition, with solar power playing a pivotal role in delivering secure, sustainable, and affordable energy for the future.”
Langford also includes biodiversity and local benefit initiatives.
RWE said the site will deliver a 50% net gain in habitat and 10% in hedgerows, with grasslands, nesting boxes and wildlife corridors integrated into the design.
The project supported up to 80 jobs during construction and will contribute over £110,000 annually in business rates.
It has also funded a £40,000 community benefit grant to Cullompton Town Council to support rooftop solar and local sustainability schemes.
RWE said Langford is the first of several projects set to come online as the company targets up to 500MW of new UK solar by year-end.
The milestone follows the publication of the UK government’s Solar Roadmap this week, reaffirming national ambitions to deploy up to 47GW of capacity by 2030 under its Clean Power Action Plan.