Lightsource Renewable Energy has added another 5.1MWp (Megawatts-peak) of installed capacity to its rapidly growing operational portfolio with the connection of Westwood Solar Farm, in Nottinghamshire. Situated between the villages of Kirton and Tuxford, the solar farm is set across 21 acres and is capable of powering around 1,110 local homes.

In addition to the generation of clean energy, a land management plan has been put in place for the ongoing care of the solar farm site to ensure maximum benefit to the local environment. As part of the plan, new hedgerow has been planted around the site featuring native species of field maple, hawthorn and hazel which will enhance screening around the site and establish new foraging habitats for wildlife. Wildflowers and species-rich grass sown around the solar farm site and bird nesting boxes installed in surrounding trees will also create a welcome boost to local biodiversity.

Kareen Boutonnat, Managing Director at Lightsource Renewable Energy, said: “As the UK’s number one solar energy company, we have set a precedent for exemplary standards across all of our projects. Early 2015 will see a strong focus on development for Lightsource as we stride towards our impressive 1 Gigawatt milestone. With a growing team of more than 350 in-house professionals and funding already secured, we are perfectly placed to deliver new projects swiftly and with same high standards we have come to expect.”

Lightsource contracted specialist EPC contractor, Biosar Aktor to construct this solar farm and the company will be retained on an operation and maintenance contract.

Kareen concludes: “The UK solar industry continues to develop at pace and, while the past few years have not been without challenges, the hard work has been paying off and we continually affirm our position as the UK’s market leader in solar power.”