Announced on April 17, 2024 in Berlin, Q ENERGY’s Whinfield Solar project near Darlington in north-east England will feature nearly 60,000 ground-mounted solar modules. The 33 MWp farm is designed to generate enough emission-free electricity to meet the average demand of over 8,700 households.
Environmental and economic impact
Whinfield Solar is expected to reduce carbon emissions by 8,000 tonnes a year. This project is the first under the Q ENERGY brand in the UK.
Local contributions and sustainable development
Mark Jones, Senior Business Developer at Q ENERGY, emphasizes the importance of working with local suppliers to maximize local employment opportunities. The project will also promote a net increase in biodiversity, with gains of 55.15% for habitat units and 9.72% for hedgerow units.
History and development of Q ENERGY
Q ENERGY, formerly known as Hanwha Qcells, has already implemented five solar PV farms in the UK during the Renewable Obligation Certificates (ROC) 1.3 period. In 2022, the development and EPC branch was separated from Hanwha Qcells and merged with a leading EPC developer and supplier in France to form the current Q ENERGY entity.
Technological advances and future plans
The company continues to strengthen its presence in the renewable energy sector, integrating technological innovations and planning new projects that will support the UK’s global energy transition.
The Whinfield Solar project marks a significant step for Q ENERGY in the development of renewable energy in the UK, supporting environmental objectives while stimulating the local economy.
