Cero Generation and its UK development partner Enso Energy have energised their 49.9-MW Larks Green solar farm, which is the first solar system in the UK to connect directly to the transmission network, rather than the lower-voltage regional grids, it was announced today.
Following the installation of new switchgear at the site, the solar park was connected to National Grid’s Iron Acton substation near Bristol.
The installation is owned and operated by Cero Generation, a portfolio company of Macquarie’s Green Investment Group (GIG), and Enso Energy. It will be co-located with a 49.5-MW/99-MWh battery, which is expected to reach financial close soon.
Connecting solar power directly to transmission network is described as a big step in the renewable energy transition as it allows clean energy to be transported over greater distances and makes it easier for larger projects to join the grid.
“We want to connect more, and faster, and are working with government, Ofgem and industry to reform the connections process to accelerate Britain’s transition to a cleaner, more secure and affordable energy system,” commented Roisin Quinn, director of customer connections at National Grid.
