Fibden Farm Solar & BESS

We selected Fibden Farm because it offers an optimal connection to the nearby National Grid Upton Warren substation through an existing 132kV pylon. This allows us to supply electricity efficiently to the local distribution network.

We conducted a thorough site assessment of the area around the substation to determine the best location for the project. We evaluated several factors, including proximity to the national distribution system, potential impacts on sensitive receptors such as residential and ecological sites, planning restrictions, topography, and ground conditions. After carefully assessing all options, we determined that this site was the most suitable.

To mitigate any potential impacts, we are committed to providing local benefits, including biodiversity net gains, a community benefit fund, and local employment opportunities through the development of this project

We need solar farms as a vital part of the UK’s energy strategy. They provide a clean, fossil-fuel-free source of electricity and are one of the most affordable energy options available. Solar power is four times cheaper than gas and twice as affordable as nuclear, making it a key solution for reducing energy costs.

The UK Government has committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions to 100% below 1990 levels by 2050, achieving Net Zero. Solar power plays a critical role in meeting this target. As part of this strategy, the government aims to install 70 GW of solar power by 2035. As of December 2023, we have achieved 15.7 GW of installed capacity, demonstrating significant progress but highlighting the work still to be done.

We use Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) to store renewable energy, such as solar and wind, and release it when power is most needed. While their primary function is to capture surplus clean electricity and discharge it later, they also provide essential grid stability services. For example, they help us manage voltage and frequency imbalances caused by fluctuations in renewable energy generation. 

Across the UK, we lose large amounts of renewable energy, like wind and solar, when we cannot immediately use it because we lack sufficient storage capacity.

In 2024, consumers paid more than £393 million to discard 8.3 TWh of wind energy due to a lack of battery storage infrastructure. This lost energy could have powered approximately 2.3 million homes during that time. Instead, the UK was forces to rely on gas imports from foreign markets.

To meet the UK’s net-zero goals and reduce dependency on fossil fuels, it is essential to expand BESS capacity – from 5GW to more than 22GW before 2030.

At Grenergy, we are proud to be part of this green energy transition, with our projects setting a new benchmark for renewable energy solutions delivered at the right scale, in the right place.

We are committed to delivering a minimum 10% biodiversity net gain through native planting, such as wildflowers, hedgerow restoration, and woodland installation to support local wildlife and habitats.

Additionally, we aim to establish a community benefit fund to support local causes and organizations, providing direct investment into the community.

We are committed to minimizing traffic impacts during the construction period through careful route planning and traffic management. Once the site becomes operational, traffic will reduce significantly, averaging only 1–2 vans per week. A full Construction Transport Management Plan will accompany our planning application.