Plans for solar farm the size of 850 football pitches

EcoPower Suffolk wants to build a solar farm near Eye

A new solar farm the size of 850 football pitches could "land in Suffolk" within the next five years after developers unveiled plans.

EcoPower Suffolk wants to build a new energy farm and battery storage facility on 1,500 acres (607 hectares) of land near Eye and an existing substation north of Yaxley.

The project aims to deliver around 250 megawatts (MW) of renewable energy and those behind it hoped to be able to connect it to the grid by 2030.

Due to the plant's size, it will be classed as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP), meaning it will need to acquire planning approval from the Secretary of State.

Suffolk County Council's Richard Rout hoped EcoProject Suffolk worked closely with the community and listened to concerns

Richard Rout, Suffolk County Council's cabinet member for devolution, local government reform and NSIPs, said: "Another NSIP is looking to land in Suffolk.

"I can fully understand how local communities are wearily bracing themselves for a time-consuming and uncertain road ahead - it does feel like a case of 'here we go again'.

"But I am expecting regular, productive engagement with EcoPower Suffolk – not just with the council, but with local residents and parishes.

"They talk about collaboration, and a commitment to community engagement and understanding local challenges and aspirations."

'Highest expectations'

According to EcoPower Suffolk, the plant would have the potential to generate enough renewable electricity to power about 75,000 homes.

But, before submitting its final planning application, those behind the scheme will hold consultations, beginning in March, with contributions from Suffolk County Council.

"Suffolk County Council has previously been clear in setting out its views that solar farms in Suffolk should not take our best quality farmland out of food production and that, broadly speaking, solar installations should be rooftop before rural," added Mr Rout.

"Moreover, the council has the highest possible expectations that any solar developer fully rules out any possible links to forced labour in China or elsewhere in the world."

EcoPower Suffolk, which was contacted by the BBC for comment, hoped to submit its application to the inspectorate by no later than summer 2026.