The change in the Government’s timetable for renewable energy schemes across the country has left some projects, that have had clear timetables for construction, unable to rely on early connection dates or with insufficient certainty over how much electricity they will be able to export to the UK national grid. Barkham Solar Far is one of the projects affected.
The construction of the solar far was due to start in Spring 2026, with an initial connection contracted for 2027 followed by full connection in 2028. However, while the initial connection date remains in place, full connection is now scheduled for some time between 2031 and 2035. This has created a lack of certainty with regard to export capacity and future income, meaning that Wokingham Borough Council now feels unable to enter the multi-million-pound construction contract currently.
The council is actively challenging the Government’s changes, pressing for the original connection dates to remain in place. Senior leaders, including the chief executive, council leader and executive member have written to the organisations responsible and met with network representatives to seek answers. Work is also underway with industry partners to highlight the wider impact of the reforms, strengthening the case for the decision to be reviewed.
“This delay is not of the council’s making” said Cllr Katrin Harding, executive member for environment and climate emergency. “Barkham Solar Farm was ready to proceed, with planning, funding in place and a clear delivery programme based on connection dates that had already been agreed. We recognise that changes to the electricity connection system were needed to bring cleaner, secure energy online. However, it is particularly disappointing that a locally owned project like Barkham, which is ready to start construction, has been delayed - especially when more solar power is needed before 2030 and this scheme could help deliver it. While this creates uncertainty in the short term, we remain fully committed to the project and are confident it will be a strong and valuable asset for the borough once it moves forward.”
The Barkham Solar Farm is a key part of the council’s climate emergency action plan and its work towards a carbon neutral borough. By generating renewable energy locally and feeding it back into the grid, the project will help reduce carbon emissions and support secure and sustainable energy resources.
Current forecasts also show the solar farm is expected to generate a significant net income for the council which will help fund important local services at a time of increasing financial pressures.
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