Cleve Hill Solar Park Reaches Commercial Operation
Congratulations to Quinbrook Infrastructure Partners on the Cleve Hill Solar Farm entering commercial operations. The 373 MW solar project in Kent has completed construction and is now fully operational, marking a significant advancement in the UK’s renewable energy capacity.
As the largest solar project in the UK, Cleve Hill is set to play a crucial role in meeting the nation’s energy demands and advancing its sustainability goals. During its commissioning phase in May, the farm’s power export reached a level equivalent to 0.7% of the UK’s national power demand. We had the pleasure of supporting Cleve Hill as its Technical Advisor during the tendering and contract development phase, moving to Owner’s Engineer services throughout its delivery phase. This project was the first solar and battery storage initiative to be consented as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP). It was also the UK’s first solar NSIP to receive a contract for difference (CfD) from the UK government-backed Low Carbon Contracts Company, securing the largest award for a UK solar project in Round 4 of the CfD auction scheme.
Construction is currently underway on the 150 MW co-located battery energy storage system (BESS). Once completed, Cleve Hill will be the largest co-located solar and storage project in the UK. The BESS enhances the project’s capabilities, ensuring a more reliable and resilient UK energy supply.
Reaching commercial operation is a significant step towards the decarbonisation of the UK power network. We are privileged to have been part of these project milestones so far and look forward to contributing to the further development of Cleve Hill in the future.
Find out more about Quinbrook Infrastructure Partners and the Cleve Hill Solar Park here.
