British renewable energy developer Anesco has unveiled the country’s first subsidy-free solar farm and energy storage facility – Clayhill – near Flitwick in the southern English county of Bedfordshire.

Clayhill is a 10 MW solar farm combined with a 6 MW energy storage facility.

Spread on a land of 45 acre, the Clayhill solar farm is capable of meeting the electricity needs of about 2,500 homes while offsetting 4,452 tons of carbon.

The Clayhill project, which was constructed and installed in 12 weeks, comprises five battery storage units.

The five battery storage units will help in maximising the usable output from renewable electricity sources like solar, which produces different amounts of energy based on the weather conditions.

Anesco executive chairman Steve Shine said: “For the solar industry, Clayhill is a landmark development and paves the way for a sustainable future, where subsidies are no longer needed or relied upon.

“Importantly, it proves that the Government’s decision to withdraw subsidies doesn’t have to signal the end of solar as a commercially viable technology.”

Chinese manufacturer BYD delivered the solar panels and the five battery storage units for the Clayhill project, which was originated and financed by Anesco.

Solar inverters of the Clayhill project were supplied by Huawei from its 1500v range.  

The UK government anticipates more subsidy-free sites to be installed and connected by other developers during the course of the year.

Climate Change and Industry Minister Claire Perry said: “The cost of solar panels and batteries has fallen dramatically over the past few years, and this first subsidy-free development at Clayhill is a significant moment for clean energy in the UK.

“Solar panels already provide enough electricity to power 2.7 million homes with 99% of that capacity installed since 2010.

“The Government is determined to build on this success and our ambitious Clean Growth Strategy will ensure we continue to lead the world on the transition to a low carbon economy.”

Image: Clayhill subsidy free solar farm. Photo: courtesy of Anesco Ltd.