Decision on Beacon Fen Energy Park Development Consent Revealed

The project involves the establishment of a substantial 400MW photovoltaic solar farm, which will be complemented by a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) with a capacity of up to 600MVA. Additionally, the development will feature an on-site substation, electrical connections, solar PV panels, single stacked BESS units, security perimeter fencing, improvements to hedgerows, ecological enhancements, and both above and below ground electrical connections capable of accommodating voltages of up to 400kV, alongside associated developments and ancillary works.

Application Submission and Examination Process

The application was lodged with the Planning Inspectorate by Beacon Fen Energy Park Limited on the 8th of April 2025 and was accepted for examination on the 1st of May 2025. This process allowed for a comprehensive review, during which members of the public, statutory consultees, and interested parties were invited to present their evidence to the Examining Authority.

After a thorough examination process, which spanned six months, recommendations were submitted to the Secretary of State on the 22nd of May 2026. This marks the 112th energy application out of a total of 180 that have been examined to date, all of which have been completed by the Planning Inspectorate within the statutory timeframe established by the Planning Act 2008.

Community Involvement and Feedback

Local communities have been actively engaged throughout the examination of this project, ensuring that those potentially affected have had opportunities to voice their opinions. Residents, local authorities, and other stakeholders were able to participate meaningfully in the six-month examination process.

The Examining Authority took into account all local perspectives and the evidence gathered during the review before finalising its recommendations to the Secretary of State. This inclusive approach ensures that community views are considered in decisions that may significantly impact the local environment and infrastructure.

Accessing the Decision and Further Information

The decision regarding the project, along with the recommendations made by the Examining Authority to the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, is publicly accessible. The evidence considered during the examination can be found on the project pages of the National Infrastructure Planning website, providing transparency and insight into the decision-making process.

This decision was authorised by Baroness Curran, acting on behalf of the Energy Secretary’s legal authority.

For journalists seeking additional information, the Planning Inspectorate Press Office can be contacted at 0303 444 5004 or 0303 444 5005, or via email at Press.office@planninginspectorate.gov.uk.