Conrad Energy’s 45MW Larport solar farm in Herefordshire, England, has begun producing power.
The solar farm was switched on at a ceremony attended by senior figures from Conrad Energy, including CEO Steven Hardman, principal contractor Ethical Power and CEO Tom Kneen, and representatives from BNP Paribas, including the UK Country Head Emmanuelle Bury.
The bank, which is a founding member of the Net-Zero Banking Alliance, will use the energy generated to decarbonise its UK operations via an initial 15-year power purchase agreement.
The design of the solar farm was developed in consultation with the local community, with the final proposal described as an ‘exemplar’ by the Chair of Herefordshire Planning and Regulatory Committee.
With 40 hectares of native wildflower grassland having been created during the construction of the project, and pairs of rare native black poplars having also been planted, the project provides the local community with significant biodiversity net gain.
Meanwhile, during the construction of the farm, Conrad Energy fitted solar panels to the roof of the nearby Mordiford Church of England Primary School, which will help reduce energy costs through the provision of locally generated renewable energy.
Larport Solar Farm is the latest in Conrad Energy’s growing pipeline of projects, with the company already hosting a potential 950MW of energy generation and battery storage across its 85 sites across the UK.
Principal contractor Ethical Power delivered design optimisation and full-wrap engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) services for Conrad Energy’s Larport Solar Farm.
Ethical Power will also provide operation and maintenance services for the site.
Hardman said: “The switching on of the Larport Solar Farm is an important moment for both Conrad Energy and BNP Paribas.
“We have found in the bank a company that shares our commitment to help the UK realise its net zero ambitions.
“Solar has a significant role to play in the energy transition and so I look forward to seeing further projects switch on in the future.”
Bury added: “BNP Paribas is already known as the bank helping finance the energy transition, and our agreement with Conrad Energy demonstrates our commitment to living our values. It is a vital step on the path to net zero banking.”