Covering around 56 hectares, the solar farm will generate enough power to meet the needs of approximately 14,000 UK homes each year, reducing carbon emissions by approximately 11,000 tonnes of CO2 annually – comparable to planting 470,000 trees. The project highlights the company's commitment to advancing renewable energy solutions and promoting environmental sustainability.
Site management will include the provision of biodiversity net gain within the site as shown in a Biodiversity Gain Plan, with at least 65 percent habitat gains and 12 percent hedge gains estimated post-development. This is due to planting trees on the site to enhance its ecological value and provide more protective areas for wildlife.
“Straws Hadley marks our third solar project approved for planning this year, along with Lark Hill in Rochford and Washdyke Farm in Folkingham” said Sam Burgess, Project Manager at Qair UK. “Securing planning permission isn’t just a milestone – it’s the foundation for building a brighter and more sustainable future as well as helping Qair reach our goal of becoming a leading IPP in the UK. “I am over the moon for myself and the team.”
The approval of Straws Hadley Solar Farm means that the company has now achieved consent for 140.9 MWp of solar energy in 2024, adding to their extensive development pipeline of over 15 GW.
On August 21, 2024, Qair announced the acquisition of a significant majority share in Green Switch Capital (GSC), a UK–based renewable energy developer specialised in solar PV, battery storage (BESS) and onshore wind technologies.
GSC's pipeline of over 15 GW, with first projects to be commissioned in 2026, will add to Qair’s existing portfolio in the UK, which already includes offshore wind, energy from waste, and onshore renewable projects.
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