OnPath Energy has completed construction of a new entrance at its Common Farm Solar Park in Dinnington, South Yorkshire, clearing the way for full build-out of the project.
The 49.9MW solar facility will be co-located with a 50MW battery energy storage system linked to the Thurcroft substation about three kilometres north. OnPath said the scheme will supply enough green power to meet the annual needs of up to 18,800 homes.
Construction is due to begin later in the autumn and complete by mid-2027. Regional subcontractors and suppliers will be involved during the development period, according to the company.
The 116-hectare site includes an ecology and biodiversity strategy, with species-rich grassland already planted to create a wildflower meadow. Additional screening and hedgerow planting, including oak trees, are also underway, with habitats for skylarks and lapwings to follow post-construction.
A community benefits package worth about £50,000 annually, totalling roughly £2m over the project’s lifetime, is being developed in consultation with local residents.
OnPath construction director Martin Kellerman said: “Completion of the site access is a key milestone. This project will bring a wide range of direct environmental, energy security, economic and community benefits to the local area.”
Common Farm is one of two solar projects OnPath is progressing in Yorkshire, alongside Barnsdale near Leeds. The developer also owns and operates four onshore wind farms in the county.