UK Grants Development Consent for Fenwick Solar Farm: 237.5MW Project to Boost Renewable Energy Capacity
Department for Energy Security and Net Zero approves major solar farm in Yorkshire, set to generate up to 237.5MW and accelerate UK’s transition to clean energy
Project Overview
The Fenwick Solar Farm has received development consent from the UK government, marking a major milestone in the country’s renewable energy expansion. The project, located in Yorkshire, will have a maximum capacity of 237.5MW, making it one of the largest solar farms in the UK.
- Components: The solar farm will feature solar PV panels, electrical equipment, energy storage facilities, and grid connection infrastructure.
- Capacity: With a generating capacity exceeding 50MW, the project is classified as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP), requiring approval under the Planning Act 2008.
Planning and Approval Process
The Fenwick Solar Farm application was submitted to the Planning Inspectorate by Fenwick Solar Project Ltd on 1 November 2024 and accepted for examination on 29 November 2024. The six-month examination process included public consultations, allowing local communities, statutory consultees, and interested parties to provide evidence and feedback.
- Recommendations: The Examining Authority submitted its recommendations to the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero on 18 November 2025.
- Decision: The final decision to grant consent was made by Lord Whitehead on behalf of the Secretary of State, following a thorough review of all evidence and local views.
Community and Stakeholder Engagement
The Planning Inspectorate ensured that local communities had the opportunity to participate in the examination process, providing a platform for their concerns and suggestions to be heard. The decision reflects a balanced consideration of local impacts, environmental factors, and national energy priorities.
- Transparency: All documents, including the decision, recommendations, and evidence, are publicly available on the National Infrastructure Planning website.
Significance for UK Energy Security
The approval of the Fenwick Solar Farm aligns with the UK’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions and enhancing energy security. The project will contribute to the diversification of the UK’s energy mix, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and supporting the transition to renewable energy sources.
- 105th Energy Application: This decision marks the 105th energy-related application approved out of 173 examined under the Planning Act 2008, demonstrating the UK’s continued progress in infrastructure development.