Statkraft announces plans for solar farm within East Riding of Yorkshire

Statkraft, Europe’s largest generator of renewable energy, has announced plans for a solar farm within the East Riding of Yorkshire.

Mylen Leah Solar Farm, which would be located between the villages of Seaton Ross, Melbourne, Laytham, Ellerton, East Cottingwith and Foggathorpe, is expected to have an installed capacity of around 500MW. The planned scheme is close to Statkraft’s Greener Grid Park near Thornton, currently under construction, and Soay Solar Farm, due to commence construction during 2025.

Proposals for Mylen Leah Solar Farm are at an early stage, and Statkraft is beginning a programme of engagement with local community representatives to gather views and feedback on the project. 

As the solar farm would have an installed capacity greater than 50MW, it is classed as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP). This means that Statkraft is required to submit a Development Consent Order (DCO) application to the Planning Inspectorate (PINS) who will consider the application and make a recommendation to the Secretary of State for determination in accordance with the Planning Act 2008. The application is expected to be submitted at the end of 2025, with a decision expected in 2027.

If delivered, the project would contribute towards the UK’s net zero target by 2050, help improve the UK’s energy security and ultimately helping achieve lower electricity bills for consumers and businesses.  

Additional local benefits that Mylen Leah Solar Farm would bring include increased biodiversity and socio and economic benefits, including employment during construction, and projects delivered through a community benefit fund.

The project team are planning a series of public consultation events, which are expected to take place in Summer 2025.

Further details on the project can be found at www.mylenleah-solar.co.uk, and members of the local community can get in touch with the project team at mylenleah@statkraft.com or 0800 772 0134.

Matt Simpson, Statkraft’s Mylen Leah Project Manager said: “We’re pleased to be able to announce this new project, which would make a key contribution towards generating more home-grown energy and deliver significant benefits for the local area.

“We look forward to our initial engagement with local communities and close neighbours, which is vital at this early stage. We are keen to hear their feedback and where possible, shape the project’s design before presenting revised plans to the wider community next year.

“As part of being a good neighbour, Statkraft offer a Community Benefit Fund alongside our projects.  We look forward to working with the community to hear their ideas of the types of local projects they’d like to see benefit.”