UK-based developer Severn Trent Green Power (STGP) has announced it is to construct three new large-scale solar farms, with potential for a fourth.
By finalising a development rights deal with leading international solar company, Elgin Energy, STGP will transform its overall renewable energy output from around 350GWh per annum to around 500GWh.
The three solar farms in Leicestershire, Warwickshire and North Yorkshire will add around 150GWh of generation capacity to the grid, rising to over 185GWh once the fourth site in Shropshire is energised. That is enough energy to supply electricity to around 70,000 homes all year, said the developer.
At present, the company manages 33 solar arrays, generating 16GWh every year. The growth is expected to take place over a period of two years, while development of each site takes place.
The project signifies STGP’s continued strategic commitment to grow a diversified renewable energy portfolio, it said.
“While anaerobic digestion remains a core focus of our business, we recognise the significant potential of solar, wind, and hydro power,” said strategy and business development director Farryad Ishaq.
“This deal represents a big step forward in our ambition to power the UK towards a cleaner and more sustainable future.”
The projects are defined as ‘ready to build’ and include grid contracts, planning consents and land leases so STGP can build, own and operate the solar farm at each location.
“We are proud to support Severn Trent Green Power in its ambitious move towards a diversified renewable energy portfolio,” said Elgin chief executive Ronan Kilduff.
“This partnership embodies our shared commitment to a low-carbon future and together, we are helping the world become climate neutral before 2050.”