UK’s First Transmission-Connected Solar Farm Goes Live
- Ecowise Renewables Ltd
- Oct 3
- 2 min read
We are excited to announce a new milestone reached in the UK’s transition to renewable energy. The National Grid has energised the UK’s first photovoltaic (PV) solar array directly connected to the electricity transmission network. The new 50MW Larks Green solar farm, developed by Enso Energy (Enso) and Cero Generation (Cero), is located close to Bristol, and is connected to National Grid’s Iron Acton substation.
The 49.9MW solar farm consists of 152,400 solar modules installed on a 200-acre plot, generating over 73,000MWh annually, enough to provide clean and secure energy for over 17,300 homes. It will displace 20,500 tons of CO2 each year compared to traditional energy production, providing cheaper, cleaner energy for consumers.
The 49.5MW / 99MWh battery energy storage system (BESS) co-located with the solar farm will balance the intermittent energy production, maximise efficiency and allow a greater output of clean energy. By storing energy during peak power generation and exporting it back onto the grid when demand is high, the BESS promises to produce a net biodiversity gain, bringing a range of resources for local wildlife, including additional woodland planting, which will provide shelter and food for a range of protected species.
This successful collaboration between Cero, Enso Energy and National Grid marks a significant step towards the UK’s commitment to a fully decarbonised power system by 2035. With the government’s recent Powering up Britain report reaffirming its ambition for a five-fold increase in deployment of solar generation by 2035, we can expect to see many more clean energy projects like Larks Green solar farm contributing to the UK’s green energy transition. National Grid’s direct connection to the transmission network is a gateway for larger projects to connect and will allow clean energy to be transported over greater distances.
At Ecowise Renewables, we’re proud to offer our customers clean, affordable and reliable energy. With this groundbreaking project, we look forward to a future where sustainable, renewable energy sources play a vital role in powering the UK. Get in touch to learn more.
Comments