Independent power producer Enviromena has secured planning approval for its High Barns Solar Farm in County Durham, a 49.9-megawatt (MWac) solar power and 25MW battery energy storage system (BESS) project near the village of Elwick.
Hartlepool Borough Council granted consent for the scheme, which is located on land adjacent to the A19. The solar installation is expected to generate enough electricity to supply nearly 26,000 homes annually and could offset approximately 14,500 tonnes of carbon dioxide each year, according to the company.
Mark Harding, chief development officer at Enviromena, described the project as a key step in the company’s expansion efforts. “We’re proud that High Barns Solar Farm has been approved, representing another important step in delivering clean, reliable power to UK homes,” he said.
“This project not only supports national net zero targets but also reflects our commitment to investing in the communities around our developments,” Harding added. “The support we’ve seen from the local community, along with the exemplary co-operation from Hartlepool Borough Council’s planning officers and committee members, truly highlights what can be achieved when renewable developers and local government are genuinely aligned.”
In addition to its energy contribution, the project includes measures to promote biodiversity, such as enhancing existing hedgerows and creating wildflower meadows and grassland habitats beneath the solar arrays. Enviromena said it would also work with the council to improve public rights of way around the site.
The High Barns project is the company’s largest self-developed scheme to date. Enviromena has also pledged continued support for local initiatives, including extending sponsorship of the Oaksway Netball Team into the 2025/26 season.
