Equans appointed to deliver 30 MWp solar farm in England

Equans has been appointed by Wokingham Borough Council to design and build a 30 MWp solar farm in Barkham, Berkshire generating clean, renewable electricity for approximately 10,000 homes.

The 41,000 panel solar farm will be connected to the National Grid at 33 kV and will take approximately 18 months to construct; with full connectivity expected in 2029.

Barkham Solar Farm is a key part of Wokingham Borough Council’s Climate Emergency Action Plan and its ambition to become a carbon-neutral borough. The council currently estimates that the project could save 5,914 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent each year. 

The wider scheme includes 2.66 hectares of new woodland, alongside meadow grassland, hedgerows and additional tree planting. These measures are intended to enhance biodiversity and capture carbon. The project also includes a new greenway through the site, improving walking and cycling connections in the local area. 

The solar farm is also expected to generate income for Wokingham Borough Council, helping to support council services at a time of financial pressure.