Exagen has received planning approval for its 109MW Holly Lane Energy Park, located in the West Midlands. The project, which includes a 34MWp solar farm and a 75MW battery energy storage system (BESS), will significantly contribute to the UK's renewable energy goals.
Once operational, the solar farm is expected to generate energy equivalent to the annual electricity consumption of approximately 9,200 UK homes. The project is also expected to have a positive environmental impact, with a projected net gain of over 123% in habitat units, enhancing biodiversity in the area.
The approval marks Exagen's third successful planning consent, following the approval of 520MW of battery storage systems in Leicestershire and Gloucestershire in 2024. The planning application was submitted in October 2023 to both Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council and Warwick District Council, as the project spans across both council areas. Following an appeal to the Planning Inspectorate, the solar and storage project is now set to move forward with the next stages of development.
Exagen highlighted that the project's design focuses on minimizing visual impact, with mature hedges providing natural screening from surrounding areas. The solar farm will be connected to a substation via a buried cable, while the BESS will be located near the substation, which will be adjacent to an existing 132kV overhead line.
Commenting on the approval, Exagen emphasized the importance of meeting the accelerated grid connection date set for 2027. The developer is now focused on advancing the project to ensure it can begin contributing clean energy to the UK grid.
In alignment with local sustainability goals, Exagen noted that the Holly Lane project would provide 6% of the renewable energy capacity required by Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council to meet its net-zero target by 2041.
Exagen's CEO said, “We are excited to see the Holly Lane project move forward, as it represents a significant contribution to the UK's renewable energy capacity and aligns with both local and national climate targets.
