Local authorities have given solar and battery developer Renewable Connections full approval for an upcoming solar project in Leicestershire.
The 22.5MW Old Hall Solar Farm, located near Ragdale, was approved for development and operation over a 40-year life by Melton Borough Council and Charnwood Borough Council on September 13.
The development uses two-sided solar panels, which collect light at both the front and the back. Bifacial solar panels can generate up to 30% more electricity than traditional solar panels, depending on site conditions; rows of panels at the Old Hall Solar Farm are tilted south to capture the maximum possible amount of sunlight.
The site is next to an existing solar farm, the 18.7 MW Six Hills Solar Farm, co-owned by BP and Lightsource BP Renewable Investments.
Philip Hale, Chief Operating Officer at Renewable Connections said: “We are pleased that approval has been granted for Old Hall Solar Farm. Solar energy is one of the cleanest and cheapest forms of energy available and can be deployed quickly.
“Throughout the project development we worked with local people and the feedback received helped shape the final design of the solar farm, which includes proposals to significantly increase the area’s biodiversity, create new habitats and provide food and shelter provide to wildlife.”
Strong year for Renewable Connections
Renewable Connections has received several key planning approvals so far in 2024, which will boost the company’s portfolio.
In July, South Staffordshire Council granted permission for a 22.5MW solar power plant, the Deepmore Solar Farm, which is expected to start construction in 2025. Notably, the project comes with a community fund of £45,000, which will be used in aid of Brewood and Coven Parish Council, the Staffordshire Wildlife Trust and another unnamed local charity.
Last month, authorities granted planning permission for a 30MW/60MWh battery energy storage system (BESS) in Scotland’s North Lanarkshire, with plans to start construction as early as 2026. The Burnbank BESS will be located on one hectare of land near a disused site. industrial site, and has an operational life of 40 years.
