Green Nation, a solar developer has revealed plans for the 750MW solar farm in Rotherham
If built, the facility would generate up to 750MW of renewable energy, enough to power approximately 250,000 homes.
Consultation documents reveal that large tracts of agricultural land in Rotherham and Doncaster, including areas previously earmarked for the now-cancelled HS2 route, are being considered for the Whitestone Solar Farm.
The northern site stretches across the Rotherham-Doncaster border, east of Hooton Roberts and north of Ravenfield.
Additional land identified includes farmland along the M18 near Bramley and Wickersley, as well as extensive fields on either side of the M1, south of its junction with the M18. These locations include areas near Ulley, Aston, Brampton, North and South Anston, and land between Treeton and Whiston.
In the south of the borough, sites near Kiveton Park, Harthill, and Woodall have also been highlighted.
The Brinsworth substation in Rotherham, was chosen for its available capacity. Green Nation has secured an agreement to connect the new energy project at this location.
The proposed solar farms, classified as temporary with a lifespan of 60 years, would include open spaces with wildflowers and native grasses planted beneath the solar panels. Measures are planned to minimize visual impacts on nearby homes and public rights of way.
Green Nation stated: โWhitestone could make a significant contribution to our national energy goalsโhelping combat climate change, bolstering energy security, and reducing energy costs through clean, renewable energy produced in the UK. We are in the early stages of development and aim to incorporate local knowledge and input into our plans through consultations with residents and technical experts.โ
The consultation period runs until January 17, 2025, with in-person events starting on November 30 at Aston-cum-Aughton Leisure Centre in Rotherham. Green Nation intends to submit its application in spring 2026, with construction slated to begin in 2027 and grid connection by 2029.
