The Voice of Spalding and South Holland
Work has begun on a new solar farm next to Sutton Bridge Power Station.
EDF Renewable Energies have began work on the development on the southern bank of the River Nene.
As well as a £20,000 community fun, the company says it is also looking to install EV charging points near to site to help the local community transition to electric vehicle ownership.
Construction on the site is being carried out by Anesco.
An EDF spokesman said: “The 49.9 MW Sutton Bridge Solar Farm is EDF Renewables’ first major solar project in the UK which will be capable of generating renewable electricity for more than 9,800 households, and deliver significant benefits locally, including an annual community benefit fund of £20,000.
“Following public consultation by both EDF Renewables and South Holland District Council planning permission was granted in March 2021, and early-stage works have now begun on site, with generation of green electricity likely by late 2022.”
EDF Renewables’ head of solar, Ben Fawcett said, “At a time when tackling climate change and energy security are at the forefront of all our minds, EDF Renewables is proud to be starting work on Sutton Bridge Solar Farm, and we acknowledge the role that the local community plays in helping to make that happen.
“In addition to the £20,000 annual community payment, we will be implementing a biodiversity management plan, which includes planting of native species hedgerows to support local wildlife.
“The site gets plenty of sunshine and is near to a grid connection, making this an excellent location for a solar farm.”
