Sonnedix has begun construction of a 120MW solar project in the UK.
The Cowley Complex, in County Durham in north-east England, is the largest plant in Sonnedix’s 300MW UK portfolio.
It is expected to become operational in the second half of 2025.
The Cowley Complex is made up of three connected sites of 60MW, 43MW and 17MW.
The plants are being built by EPC contractor Ameresco Sunel Energy, contributing to the local economy by providing over 100 green jobs in the area.
The project is the first to draw from Sonnedix’s €500m loan facility secured in December 2023 to finance the construction of its renewable energy projects in Europe and the UK.
The multicurrency loan allows Sonnedix to cluster, contract and construct its development pipeline of renewable plants more efficiently and flexibly.
The whole UK portfolio is 100% contracted under the UK Government’s Contracts for Difference (CfD) scheme providing long-term price and revenue security.
Following completion of construction of Cowley Complex, the CfD scheme will become effective in 2026.
Axel Thiemann, CEO of Sonnedix, said: “With construction of the largest plant in our UK portfolio underway, we have marked a major milestone in our UK growth strategy.
“We are excited to be progressing our presence in the market and becoming a key player in helping the UK transition towards a clean, secure and sustainable energy system and meeting its decarbonisation goals.”
Jorge Amiano Goyarrola, Global Head of Engineering and Construction, said: “We’re extremely excited to be breaking ground on the Cowley site.
“At 120MW, this is an important infrastructure project for the local area, providing over 100 green jobs during construction and the secure supply of green, affordable energy once operational.
“We’re very proud to be working on what is set to be one of the largest solar PV plants across the whole of the UK once completed.”