The Conergy Group has completed Great Britain’s largest solar power plant. The 5 MW free-field park is situated in Hawton, near Newark on Trent in Nottinghamshire. The “fast-track” project was built in cooperation with Conergy’s local partner Lark Energy and was completed only six weeks after receiving the planning consent on May 24, 2011.
The local residents supported the green project from the beginning on: A community research conducted prior to the installation showed that 100% of the respondents generally favoured the idea of solar energy as a clean, renewable energy solution with no emissions. 92% of those who came to an open event in March 2011 supported the Hawton solar park. “I am sure in time this could be a major opportunity for renewable energy to prove to be a major benefit”, concluded one respondent.“
The project was clearly a race against time to meet the deadline of July 31, 2011 – but we made it, even more than two weeks beforehand thanks to our brilliant solar expert team”, says Robert Goss, Head of Conergy UK. “The deadline was imposed by the recent review of the Feed in Tariff incentive payments for large-scale solar projects that are to be slashed by 72%. All parties showed great determination to support this exciting project which will be one of a very few large solar projects installed in 2011.”
Conergy’s Solar Triumph: Britain’s Largest Free-Field Park
A Race Against Time
November 2011 marks a milestone in British renewable energy. Conergy completes the nation’s largest free-field solar park. The company achieves this feat in a mere six weeks.
Breaking Records in Hawton
The 5 MW solar park rises in Hawton, Nottinghamshire. It spans 14.6 hectares, equivalent to 20 football fields. Consequently, the installation generates enough power for 1,300 homes.

Overcoming Logistical Challenges
Conergy faces a tight deadline. The company must complete the project before changes in feed-in tariffs take effect. Therefore, they mobilize a team of 100 workers. These dedicated individuals work tirelessly, often in adverse weather conditions.
Cutting-Edge Technology at Work
The solar park boasts 21,600 Conergy PowerPlus modules. These high-performance panels maximize energy yield. Moreover, the installation includes 3 central inverter stations. As a result, the park operates at peak efficiency.
Environmental Impact and Local Benefits
This massive solar installation significantly reduces carbon emissions. It cuts CO2 output by 2,300 tons annually. Furthermore, the project creates local jobs and stimulates the green economy.
A Model for Future Projects
Conergy’s success in Hawton sets a new standard. It demonstrates the feasibility of large-scale solar projects in the UK. Consequently, other companies look to replicate this model across the country.
The Road Ahead for British Solar
The completion of Britain’s largest solar park signals a bright future. It paves the way for increased investment in renewable energy. However, changes in government policies may present new challenges.
1https://www.renewableenergyworld.com/solar/conergy-completes-5-mw-pv-plant-in-uk/#gref
2https://www.motherearthnews.com/renewable-energy/solar-power/solar-energy-facts-zm0z14aszrob/
3https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2011/nov/09/uk-solar-power-subsidies-cut
The Green Living Guy, Seth Leitman is an independent power producer, a green living expert, and Editor of the McGraw-Hill, TAB Green Guru Guides. Seth is also an Author, Radio Host, Reporter, Writer and an Environmental Consultant on green living. The Green Living Guy writes about green living, green lighting, the green guru guides and more. Seth's books range from:
# Build Your Own Electric Vehicle by Bob Brant and Seth Leitman (2nd and 3rd editions)
# Build Your Own Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle by Seth Leitman
# Build Your Own Electric Motorcycle by Carl Vogel
# Green Lighting by Seth Leitman, Brian Clark Howard and Bill Brinsky
# Solar Power For Your Home by David Findley
# Renewable Energies For Your Home by Russel Gehrke
# Do-it-Yourself Home Energy Audits by David Findley
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