North Ray Solar Farm: Our Proposal

Please check back on 9 October for more information. Our early site layout will be available at the consultation events, and online from the start of the consultation period.  

Why solar? 

Energy powers our homes, businesses, and transport, driving innovation and growth across the UK. However, our historic reliance on coal and gas has been a major contributor to climate change. In recent years, the UK has made real progress in leading the renewable transition—marked by the closure of the last coal power station after 140 years of operation. Yet, as demand for electricity continues to rise, expanding renewable energy generation is essential to meet future needs and reduce reliance on imports.

Solar power is key to meeting this rising demand and plays an important role in the country’s ambition to achieve net zero by 2050 and deliver energy security. Ground-mounted solar projects are a critical national priority, delivering energy security, decarbonisation, and affordability.

Solar provides a low-carbon, renewable energy source that is cheaper and faster to deploy than alternatives. It is one-ninth the cost of gas and less than one-third the cost of nuclear energy, making it essential for reducing emissions and providing affordable energy for all. 

Why here? 

One of the key factors in locating solar farms is their proximity to the National Grid. New projects can only connect where there is available capacity. For this project, we have secured a grid connection agreement at Wold Newton Substation. The grid connection itself is a separate process and does not form part of this planning application. 

Once the connection was agreed, we identified nearby land that is relatively flat, suitable for solar, and avoids key environmental constraints. Existing woodland on the site means larger pieces of infrastructure, including the on-site substation, can be located in well-screened areas, and proximity to strategic roads helps with construction access.