Hive, Wirsol 350MW UK project edges closer, targets 2020 approval

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Reddit
Email

Hive Energy and Wirsol’s bid to build a 350MW solar farm on the Kent coast of the UK has entered a second phase of consultation, with the duo now expecting final approval in 2020. 

The two developers revealed in November last year their intent to develop the project, which would comfortably be the country’s largest, under a joint venture dubbed Cleve Hill Solar Park limited.

This article requires Premium SubscriptionBasic (FREE) Subscription

Try Premium for just $1

  • Full premium access for the first month at only $1
  • Converts to an annual rate after 30 days unless cancelled
  • Cancel anytime during the trial period

Premium Benefits

  • Expert industry analysis and interviews
  • Digital access to PV Tech Power journal
  • Exclusive event discounts

Or get the full Premium subscription right away

Or continue reading this article for free

Having consulted with local residents, the plans are now entering a second phase of consultation which is to run until 13 July 2018.

That initial consultation threw up a range of feedback which the companies are now reflecting in modified proposals. Panels have been removed from some parts of the site to mitigate views from neighbouring properties.

The developers have also proposed a raft of biodiversity improvements and habitat mitigation following collaborative efforts with the Kent Wildlife Trust, RSPB and Natural England.

Hugh Brennan, managing director at Hive Energy, added:  “We are working with industry leading experts to design sustainable land management practices and biodiversity improvements as an integral part of our proposals for the solar park.”

The results of this second consultation will feed into the joint venture’s full application for a Development Consent Order, which will be ruled over by the business and energy secretary Greg Clark.

The application is expected to be submitted in late Summer/early Autumn this year, but a final decision is not expected to be issued until 2020

Read Next

Premium
September 15, 2025
The UK government and solar industry have jointly published a long-anticipated roadmap detailing how to maximise the country’s solar potential. Chris Hewett, CEO of Solar Energy UK takes a closer look at the details.
Premium
September 1, 2025
The UK’s new Labour government took power last summer, promising a renewable energy revolution, with solar playing a lead role.
August 29, 2025
The first half of 2025 has been the strongest year for UK solar energy generation on record, according to a new report think tank Ember.
August 26, 2025
Investment in utility-scale solar fell by 19% in the first half of 2025, as global investment in all renewable energy projects grew by 10%.
August 5, 2025
NextEnergy Capital (NEC), through NextPower V ESG, has acquired a 73MW agriPV portfolio in Campania, Italy.
Premium
August 1, 2025
Sustained private investment into UK solar is starting to produce results, at least with regard to the role of solar power in its energy mix.

Subscribe to Newsletter

Upcoming Events

Solar Media Events
September 30, 2025
Seattle, USA
Solar Media Events
October 1, 2025
London, UK
Solar Media Events
October 2, 2025
London,UK
Solar Media Events
October 7, 2025
Manila, Philippines
Solar Media Events
October 7, 2025
San Francisco Bay Area, USA