In addition to the energy production, EDF Renewables has launched a £20,000 per year community benefit fund, managed by the Lincolnshire Community Foundation, to support local organizations. During the celebration, EDF Renewables welcomed members of the local community and some of the first beneficiaries of the fund to the Sutton Bridge site. Guests learned about the biodiversity improvements made at the site and gained insights into the operations of a functioning solar farm.
Grant Folley, Head of Origination and Planning at EDF Renewables UK, commented: “Solar is already playing an important part in the UK’s journey to net zero so we are very proud that our first UK solar farm, Sutton Bridge, began operating last year. During development, we placed a great amount of focus on improving biodiversity on site, so it is encouraging to see a variety of ground-nesting birds, rabbits, and muntjac now on site as a result of this hard work.”
Folley also emphasized the importance of renewable projects benefiting local communities: “What’s just as important is for renewable projects to positively impact the communities nearby, who are hosting these critical assets. We were therefore delighted that through the operation of our Sutton Bridge solar farm, we are able to support vital organizations and groups in the area, including Sutton Bridge Foodbank and the local bowls club who have received some of the first grants from the community benefit fund.”
The Sutton Bridge solar farm is the first of three solar projects EDF Renewables began operating last year, alongside sites in Burwell, Cambridgeshire, and Porth Wen, Anglesey. These solar farms add to EDF Renewables' existing portfolio, which includes 45 battery, onshore, and offshore wind projects.
Katie Littlewood, Grants Manager at Lincolnshire Community Foundation, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership: “We are delighted to be working once more with EDF Renewables, ensuring the community benefit fund supports projects in the local area, helping to build a better future for residents. Our first round was a huge success, and we look forward to seeing more applications from clubs, groups, and organizations in the near future.”
Additionally, EDF Renewables plans to develop a battery storage system at the Sutton Bridge site, following approval from South Holland District Council. The battery will enhance grid resilience, providing flexibility to accommodate fluctuating renewable energy production by charging during low demand and discharging when power is needed most.
