Conrad Energy already hosts a potential 950MW of energy generation and battery energy storage across its 85 sites in the UK. Image: Conrad Energy.
Conrad Energy already hosts a potential 950MW of energy generation and battery energy storage across its 85 sites in the UK. Image: Conrad Energy.

Flexible energy provider Conrad Energy revealed yesterday (11 June) that it has energised its 45MW Larport Solar Farm in Herefordshire.

The solar farm is expected to save approximately 375,000 tonnes of carbon emissions over its 40-year lifespan. The power will be sold to BNP Paribas through an initial 15-year power purchase agreement (PPA).

Conrad’s project is located south of the Clay Hill Pit Substation at Dormington and received planning permission in May 2022. The farm’s design was developed in consultation with the local community, which involves the creation of 40 hectares of native wildflower grassland and the planting of pairs of rare native black poplars. You can find the plans below.

The project includes 40 hectares of native wildflower grassland. Image: Conrad Energy.

During the farm’s construction, Conrad Energy also fitted solar panels to the roof of the nearby Mordiford Church of England Primary School, which will help reduce energy costs by providing locally generated renewable energy.

Principal contractor Ethical Power delivered design optimisation and full-wrap engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) services for the solar farm. Ethical Power will also provide operation and maintenance services for the site.

Steven Hardman, CEO of Conrad Energy, said: “The switching on of the Larport Solar Farm is an important moment for both Conrad Energy and BNP Paribas. We have found in the bank a company that shares our commitment to help the UK realise its net zero ambitions. Solar has a significant role to play in the energy transition and so I look forward to seeing further projects switch on in the future.”

Conrad Energy expands UK pipeline to 950MW

Larport Solar Farm is the latest in Conrad Energy’s growing pipeline of projects. The company already hosts a potential 950MW of energy generation and battery energy storage across its 85 sites in the UK.

Earlier this year, Conrad Energy secured planning permission for a 15.23MW solar farm in collaboration with Leonardo Helicopters. The solar farm, the operational start date for which has yet to be announced, will join the company’s 15MW battery energy storage system (BESS) in the Somerset region.