East Yorkshire Solar Farm, planned between Gribthorpe, Spaldington, Wressle and the town of Howden, is expected to deliver around 400 megawatts (MW) of low-carbon electricity to the UK grid.
This output is enough to power around 100,000 homes, supporting the UK government’s goals of reaching net-zero emissions by 2050 and generating 70 gigawatts of solar electricity by 2035.
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As a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP), the solar farm secured approval through a Development Consent Order (DCO). Following initial consultations in 2022, the DCO application was accepted for examination in December 2023.
Robust environmental impact assessment
The examination concluded in November 2024, with the Examining Authority appointed by the Planning Inspectorate submitting its recommendation to the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, Ed Miliband MP, in February 2025. The Secretary of State’s decision to grant development consent followed in May.
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The project design underwent a robust Environmental Impact Assessment and was shaped by multiple rounds of public consultation. Buffer zones and screening vegetation will help reduce visual impact, while existing hedgerows will be retained to preserve the rural character of the landscape.
Creation of wildlife habitats
The development includes the creation of wildlife habitats such as grassland and woodland zones, with a large area near the River Foulness incorporated within the order limits to support overwintering bird species. The project will also preserve public rights of way and improve local accessibility through the introduction of permissive paths.
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The construction and operation of the East Yorkshire Solar Farm are also expected to deliver significant economic benefits to the local community, including job opportunities during the build phase and indirect support for nearby businesses. (hcn)
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