Renewable energy consultancy Natural Power has been selected as technical expert and client representative for Network Rail during the construction of the Bloy’s Grove solar project in Norfolk, the company said on Wednesday.
The 49.9-megawatt (MW) solar farm, developed by EDF Renewables, marks the first corporate power purchase agreement (CoPPA) between Network Rail and an independent power producer in the UK. Located in Swainsthorpe, the project is expected to generate around 64 gigawatt hours (GWh) of electricity annually—enough to power approximately 20,000 homes.
Natural Power will provide construction-phase support, including design review, site inspections, milestone certification, and risk assessments. The firm will also ensure the project meets the technical and performance requirements set out in the CoPPA.
“We’re proud to support Network Rail on such a landmark project for UK infrastructure and the energy transition,” said William Delabre, head of solar at Natural Power. “Bloy’s Grove represents a model for future public-private partnerships driving sustainability at scale.”
The consultancy also advised Network Rail during the early tender phase, helping to define technical specifications, assess bids, and provide guidance on project interfaces and performance guarantees.
Delabre added: “Our role in this project ensures transparency, accountability, and technical rigour throughout construction.
The solar project is a key element of Network Rail’s wider decarbonisation strategy, supporting its goal to reduce emissions and expand renewable energy procurement across its operations.
