Island Green Power Launches Second Consultation for 500MW East Pye Solar + Storage Project in Norfolk

Island Green Power is progressing its ambitious 500MW solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant with a co-located battery energy storage system (BESS) near Long Stratton, South Norfolk. This Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP) aims to deliver clean, reliable power for approximately 115,000 homes.

Key Energy Details:

🔹The solar array will generate up to 500MW of renewable electricity, helping accelerate the UK’s transition to low-carbon energy.

🔹The co-located BESS, planned up to 500MW capacity, will store excess solar energy and export it during peak demand, enhancing grid flexibility and smoothing intermittency.

🔹The project will connect to the existing 400kV National Grid overhead line between Norwich Main and Bramford substations, supported by a new National Grid substation.

🔹Two mounting options are under consideration: tracker-mounted panels that follow the sun for maximum efficiency, or fixed-tilt panels angled between 10° and 35°.

🔹Designed for a 60-year operational lifespan, the project includes biodiversity enhancements such as wildflower meadows, hedgerow planting, and habitat corridors, alongside continued sheep grazing beneath panels.

🔹If approved, the project is expected to begin construction in late 2027 or early 2028, with a planning and approval process lasting approximately two years.

🔹Estimated carbon savings are around 120,000 tonnes of CO₂ annually, contributing significantly to local and national decarbonisation goals.

Island Green Power emphasizes community engagement and biodiversity net gain, aiming to deliver a project that balances energy needs with environmental and social benefits.

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