Bluefield Renewable Developments has secured planning permission for its third large-scale solar farm in Northumberland, in north-east England, which will be built with a battery.
The scheme comprises a 49.9MW solar farm collocated with a 60MW battery energy storage system.
It will be located in Bedlington, near the Burnt House solar farm, another 49.9MW Bluefield solar project, for which planning was granted last year.
Last year the developer also secured approval for the 49.9MW Low Horton Farm scheme in Blyth.
The battery will help to integrate the increasing levels of renewable energy generation with the grid and provide local grid support services.
Situated on a well-screened, former open cast coal mining site, the Broadway House Farm project was well received by councillors and was unanimously approved.
Councillor Barry Flux said: “It would seem to me to be the ideal place for this. This is far less intrusive than other forms of renewable energy.”
Once the construction is complete, Bluefield intends to graze sheep on the solar site, ensuring a dual use of both food and energy production.
In addition, areas specifically designated for biodiversity enrichment will benefit from the creation of a wildflower meadow, rich grassland environments and the enhancement of existing hedgerows.
A sum of at least £300,000 is also to be provided for local community projects in the area.
Bluefield develops, builds and operates solar farms on behalf of the funds it advises, including the stock market-listed Bluefield Solar Income Fund (BSIF).
It is envisaged that over time, this and other new projects, will bolster the fund’s existing portfolio of over 100 solar farms in the UK, which have a capacity of over 800MW.
Bluefield development director Alan Connolly said: “Our team has worked closely with the county council and local community at every step of the way.
“This approach has been well received and we look forward to continuing this constructive relationship.”