TotalEnergies has outlined plans for a new 49-megawatt (MW) solar farm and 5MW battery energy storage system (BESS) on land south of Birmingham Airport, in a project aimed at strengthening local energy resilience and supporting regional decarbonisation goals.
The proposed Castle Hills Solar Farm is expected to generate enough electricity to power approximately 14,000 homes annually. The French energy company described the development as a “meaningful contribution” to net zero objectives, adding that it would offer long-term environmental and community benefits.
“Castle Hills Solar Farm represents a significant step in the West Midlands’ journey towards a low-carbon future,” a TotalEnergies spokesperson said. “This carefully considered proposal combines sustainable energy generation with long-term environmental and community benefits.”
The company is in early-stage discussions with Birmingham Airport regarding a potential direct energy supply agreement. If successful, the deal could support the airport’s sustainability goals and reduce reliance on grid-supplied electricity.
As part of the proposal, TotalEnergies has committed to delivering biodiversity enhancements across the site, including new planting and habitat restoration. A £40,000 annual Community Benefit Fund has also been proposed to support local initiatives over the project’s planned 40-year operational lifespan.
Public engagement is underway, with a consultation website already launched and an in-person exhibition planned ahead of the project’s formal submission to Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council.
“We are proud to be advancing one of Britain’s most ambitious solar projects and look forward to collaborating with our neighbours to refine our plan and seize opportunities,” the spokesperson added.
