Starlight Energy submits early planning application for Leicestershire developments

The proposed developments will combine solar and BESS. Image: Starlight Energy

Starlight Energy requested early-stage planning permission for two proposed solar and battery energy storage system (BESS) developments in Leicestershire, England.

The developer, which is an offshoot of NextEnergy Group, submitted a request for a screening opinion to the Harborough District Council in regard to two development sites in the Harborough and Saddington areas.

The proposal suggests that if approved, ground-mounted solar panels with a combined capacity of around 20MW would be installed on the two sites, alongside co-located BESS with an additional 20MW capacity. The BESS capacity will be spread across approximately 30 battery containers, which will be pre-fabricated offsite and then delivered to the site. The proposed development will connect to the grid at the nearby Kibworth Road substation.

The proposals suggest that the panels will be mounted at least 80cm off the ground, allowing agricultural activities, including sheep grazing, to continue in the area. None of the proposed developments sit on best and most versatile (BMV) agricultural land.

The sun shines on Leicestershire

This year has seen a number of notable solar and storage projects approved in the y of Leicestershire. Last month, Balance Power secured planning approval for a 49.5MW/99MWh BESS to be located in Hinkley, in the southwest of the y; although a construction start date has not been given for this project, Balance Power says it expects the development to be energized by October 2025.

Later in September, solar and battery developer Renewable Connections was granted full approval for the 22.5MW Old Hall Solar Farm, located near Ragdale. This project is notable for its decision to use bifacial solar panels, titled to the south, to generate up to 30% more electricity than traditional solar power setups. This newly approved development will be located next to an existing solar farm, the 18.7MW Six Hills Solar Farm, which is co-owned by BP and Lightsource BP Renewable Investments.

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