EDF Renewables' 49.9MW Sutton Bridge solar farm has taken another step forward as its planning application goes before South Holland District Council.

The planning application – the first for a large scale solar farm project in the UK submitted by the company – follows a consultation with local people, along with a number of ecological and other feasibility surveys.

EDF is satisfied that the site, which is next to its existing gas-fired Sutton Bridge Power Station, is in an excellent location for solar, with high levels of irradiation and a nearby grid connection.

If granted planning permission, the project team will explore the potential of battery storage and electric vehicle charging at the site as well.

Following the local consultation, EDF Renewables is offering a community benefit fund of up to £10,000 a year for the duration of the project, as well as additional planting to help screen the solar panels from view.

EDF Renewables head of development, Stephen Walls, said the company was really pleased to be able to respond positively to the local feedback.

“EDF Renewables is an experienced renewables developer and Sutton Bridge is the forefront of several solar projects we have planned in the UK. Our renewables projects will enable us to contribute to the UK’s green economic recovery from COVID-19 and help the country reach its net zero targets.”

The project was initially announced in July, and is part of a slew of large-scale solar EDF is looking to develop in the UK, including a site in Bramford announced in October and one in Norwich announced in November.