RWE has begun construction of a further four of its solar projects in the UK, bringing the total number to 11.
The four new PV farms – Copse Lodge, Fraddon, Laynes Wood and Wick Farm – will have a combined installed capacity of around 200MW.
The new projects are scheduled to be operational by 2026.
At the same time, RWE has launched a UK Solar Developers Charter, which “demonstrates RWE’s dedication to placing social, economic, and environmental well-being at the heart of its development and construction activities”.
The new charter formalises RWE’s commitment to engaging with local communities and ensuring that its solar projects deliver long-term benefits, including economic opportunities and environmental stewardship.
It outlines the company’s approach to protecting biodiversity, supporting local jobs and creating lasting value for the regions where it operates.
Katja Wunschel, RWE’s chief executive RWE Renewables Europe & Australia, on a visit to the company’s Cotmoor solar project in Nottinghamshire (pictured), said: “Starting construction on these four new solar farms marks another major step in our renewable energy journey here in the UK.
“With 11 solar projects now in construction, RWE is making an important contribution to ensuring a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.
“We are proud to play a leading role in supporting the UK’s net-zero ambitions and helping to secure affordable, green energy for generations to come.
“In addition, our new Developers Charter will help frame how our projects will not only deliver clean energy but also leave a positive, lasting legacy on local ecosystems and communities, setting a clear standard for environmental responsibility in the delivery of solar power.”
Wunschel was joined by Baroness Taylor of Stevenage, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.
She said: “It was a pleasure to visit RWE’s Cotmoor solar farm to see progress on the construction of the project which, once operational, will generate enough clean power for 24,000 UK homes.
“I welcome its ‘Developers Charter’ formalising the company’s commitment to good site management, meaningful community engagement and respect for the local environment.
“Ensuring the delivery of clean, affordable and reliable green energy projects, working to best practice development and delivery principles, is an important objective for the Government.”
Construction work at Cotmoor is already over 75% complete, the most advanced of RWE’s UK solar fleet to date and is set to become its first operational solar project in the country.