Utility scale solar farm begins operation in Lincolnshire

EDF Renewables UK’s first solar farm in the country has officially entered operation in Lincolnshire, generating electricity since last year and supporting a new annual fund for local organisations.

The Sutton Bridge solar farm has a capacity of 49.9 megawatts and can produce enough electricity to power more than 9,000 households per year. Located in South Holland, it is the first of three solar sites the company brought online in 2023, alongside Burwell in Cambridgeshire and Porth Wen in Anglesey.

A battery storage system is also planned for the Sutton Bridge site following recent approval from South Holland District Council. The battery will be used to balance supply and demand on the electricity grid, storing energy when demand is low and releasing it when it is most needed.

To mark the occasion, EDF Renewables hosted an event at the site for community members and early grant recipients. Attendees were given insight into the site’s management and the biodiversity measures introduced during development, which have encouraged the return of species such as ground-nesting birds and muntjac deer.

Grant Folley, head of origination and planning at EDF Renewables UK:

“Solar is already playing an important part in the UK’s journey to net zero so we are very proud that our first UK solar farm, Sutton Bridge, began operating last year. During development, we placed a great amount of focus on improving biodiversity on site, so it is encouraging to see a variety of ground nesting birds, rabbits and muntjac now on site as a result of this hard work.”

Alongside the start of operations, a £20,000 per year community benefit fund has been launched to support local charities and groups. The fund is managed by the Lincolnshire Community Foundation, which will oversee applications and distribute grants. Initial recipients include Sutton Bridge Foodbank and a local bowls club.

EDF Renewables UK currently operates 45 other renewable energy sites across the country, including onshore and offshore wind farms and battery projects.