The UK government has granted planning consent for the 740MW One Earth Solar Farm1, marking a significant step in boosting the nation's clean energy capacity. This large-scale project, located on the Nottinghamshire-Lincolnshire border, will include a battery energy storage system and connect to the grid via the High Marnham substation. The approval, issued by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) on 8 July 2026, highlights a strategic drive for energy independence and a future powered by abundant clean energy, aligning with Fuse Energy's vision for a resilient and clean energy system.
Fuse Energy is committed to a future where clean, affordable power is accessible to every home. We believe in making energy abundant, not scarce, and projects like the One Earth Solar Farm are crucial to achieving this vision.
Unpacking the one Earth solar farm project
Scale and location: a major UK renewable asset
The One Earth Solar Farm is a substantial development with a generation capacity of 740MW. Situated on the border between Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire, this project will contribute significantly to the UK's renewable energy portfolio. It is expected to generate enough low-carbon electricity to supply over 200,000 UK homes, based on an average UK home using around 2,700 kWh of electricity per year. This marks it as a crucial asset in the country's energy transition.
Key developers: Perigus Energy and PS Renewables
The One Earth Solar Farm is a joint venture between Perigus Energy and PS Renewables. Perigus Energy was established following Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners' (CIP) acquisition of Ørsted's European onshore renewables business and subsequent rebrand earlier this year. Both companies have a track record in developing and delivering clean energy projects.
Integrated battery energy storage system
Beyond its energy generation capacity, the One Earth Solar Farm is designed to incorporate a battery energy storage system (BESS). This integration is crucial for enhancing grid stability and optimising renewable energy utilisation by storing solar energy and releasing it to the grid when it is most needed.
The approval journey: development consent Order
Role of DESNZ in national infrastructure projects
The One Earth Solar Farm project received its Development Consent Order (DCO) approval from the DESNZ on 8 July 2026. This approval process is crucial for Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs), which are large-scale developments relating to energy, transport, water, and waste. The Secretary of State makes the final decision on DCO applications.
The DCO process explained
The DCO process is a rigorous regulatory mechanism designed to streamline consent for major infrastructure projects while ensuring thorough assessment. It involves extensive pre-application consultation with local communities and stakeholders, followed by an examination period overseen by the Planning Inspectorate. During this examination, the public, statutory consultees, and interested parties can provide evidence. The Planning Inspectorate then makes a recommendation to the Secretary of State, who ultimately decides whether to grant the DCO.
What is a DCO?
A DCO is a legal instrument in the UK that grants permission for major infrastructure projects to be constructed. It is typically used for Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs) such as power stations, airports, and railways, providing a single consent for various permissions.
Connecting to the grid: High Marnham substation
A critical aspect of the One Earth Solar Farm is its grid connection. The project will connect to the grid via the High Marnham substation. The availability of this grid connection point was a starting consideration for the solar farm's location.
Strategic importance for UK energy security
Contribution to UK clean energy targets
Projects like the One Earth Solar Farm are vital for the UK's commitment to increasing its clean energy capacity and achieving its renewable energy targets. By adding 740MW of solar generation, the project significantly contributes to the national effort to decarbonise the electricity grid.
Powering homes and reducing carbon emissions
The One Earth Solar Farm's capacity to power over 200,000 UK homes directly translates into a substantial reduction in carbon emissions. This large-scale clean energy generation helps to displace electricity produced from fossil fuels, moving the UK closer to its Net-Zero goals and improving air quality.
Government's 'pro-growth' approach to renewables
UK energy secretary Ed Miliband has emphasised the importance of such projects, stating, "The only way to have energy security is if we take a pro-growth approach to building more clean energy in Britain. For two years that is exactly what this government has done." This sentiment reflects the government's strategic drive to accelerate renewable energy developments to secure the nation's energy future.
Beyond the project: a vision for energy abundance
Shifting from scarcity to 'power to play with'
The approval of the One Earth Solar Farm exemplifies a shift away from an energy scarcity mindset towards a future with "power to play with." This vision, championed by Fuse Energy, suggests a world where energy is so abundant it ceases to be a constant concern. Large-scale renewable infrastructure is key to delivering the cheapest, cleanest energy possible, enabling households to thrive without the constant worry of energy costs.
The role of large-scale solar in the future energy mix
Large-scale solar farms are indispensable components of the UK's future energy mix. Alongside other renewable sources, they provide the foundational capacity needed for a resilient and sustainable energy system. Their integration with battery storage further enhances their value, ensuring a more consistent and reliable supply of clean power.
Community and environmental considerations
While primarily focused on energy generation, large-scale solar projects often incorporate biodiversity enhancement plans and careful site selection to minimise environmental impact.
The future of large-scale solar in the UK
Recent trends in solar farm approvals
The approval of the 740MW One Earth Solar Farm follows a trend of recent consents for other major solar projects in England. The DESNZ has approved numerous nationally significant clean energy projects in recent months, including two other large-scale solar farms in England last week totalling 470MW of capacity.
Challenges and opportunities for renewable energy development
Developing large-scale renewable energy projects in the UK presents both challenges and opportunities. While securing planning consent through processes like the DCO can be complex, the clear government commitment to a "pro-growth" approach offers significant opportunities for developers. The ongoing need for energy security and decarbonisation continues to drive investment and innovation in the sector.
How Fuse Energy champions abundant clean power
Fuse Energy is dedicated to building a future with abundant clean power. Our mission is to deliver terawatt-hours of the cheapest, cleanest energy possible, challenging the scarcity narrative that has long dominated the energy sector. Projects like the One Earth Solar Farm demonstrate the scale of ambition required to achieve true energy independence and provide "power to play with" for every home.
Ready to take control of your home energy? Fuse Energy offers clear pricing, real-time usage data, and 24/7 human customer support, making it easier to manage your bills and understand your consumption. Switch to a modern energy experience designed around you.
For the avoidance of doubt, this article is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal or financial advice. The author and/or Fuse Energy shall not be responsible for any losses arising out of any reliance on the information contained herein.
