Renewable energy developer ISG Renewables has confirmed that its 22.6MWp Bicker Fen solar farm was successfully energised yesterday (12 March).
ISG Renewables, which is a joint venture between developer Innova and asset management firm Schroders Greencoat, confirmed that due to the completion of the solar farm, it would now be handed over to Innova’s in-house asset management team to oversee its operation and maintenance alongside Carn Nicholas.
Initially developed by Innova, the site was granted planning permission in May 2022 and awarded a Contract for Difference (CfD) by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy in their July 2022 auction.
Innova’s delivery team managed the design, module procurement, and the EPC and ICP construction contracts.
Andrew Kaye, joint CEO and founder at Innova, said: “After a successful construction period, we are delighted to have energised Bicker Fen Solar Park. The energy generated from Bicker Fen will be enough to power 2,266 households in the local area and save 5,020 tonnes of carbon each year, taking the UK another step towards net zero and reducing its reliance on fossil fuels.
“We look forward to seeing the positive impact Bicker Fen Solar Park has on the environment and local communities in the months and years to come, as well as continuing to strengthen and develop our relationship with Schroders Greencoat.”
Bicker Fen to house solar NSIP
Bicker Fen Solar Park is not the only solar project housed in the area, with renewable energy company Low Carbon, exploring an opportunity to develop a 400MW solar-based nationally significant infrastructure project (NSIP).
Dubbed Beacon Fen Energy Park, the project is anticipated to begin construction “no earlier than 2026” and has grid access secured through an existing connection at Bicker Fen.
It is worth noting that EDF Renewables and Luminous Energy are also exploring the development of an 800MW solar NSIP in North Kesteven, Lincolnshire. The Springwell Solar Farm project, featuring co-located energy storage, will finish its consultation on 22 February.
Solar Power Portal’s publisher Solar Media will host the UK Solar Summit on 4-5 June 2024 in London. The event will explore the UK’s new landscape for utility and rooftop solar, looking at the opportunities within a GW+ annual market and much more. For more information, go to the website.