Cleve Hill Solar Park

  • Region

    UK/Ireland

Cleve Hill Solar Park is the UK’s largest consented solar and battery storage development under construction.

Strategically located on the north Kent coast, this Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP) was granted planning approval in May 2020 and is now well underway. The project is more than just a renewable energy scheme — it’s a bold vision for a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future for Kent and beyond.

The solar park will generate 373 MW of clean solar energy and includes a 150 MW co-located battery storage facility. Together, they will provide sustainable, affordable electricity, enough to power the equivalent to over 100,000 homes. Spanning more than 490 hectares across the Nagden, Cleve, and Graveney marshes, Cleve Hill Solar Park represents a major step forward in the UK’s renewable energy landscape.

Expected to generate

373MW

of clean solar energy

Includes a

150MW

co-located battery storage facility

Expected to power

100,000homes

Spans more than

490hectares

of land

Project timeline

2020

Planning consent for Cleve Hill Solar Park was granted in May.

2023

Construction began in April.

2026

Project remains on track for full completion and operation in 2026.

2020

Planning consent for Cleve Hill Solar Park was granted in May.

2023

Construction began in April.

2026

Project remains on track for full completion and operation in 2026.

LOCATION

The site is located on the north Kent coast between Faversham and Whitstable, near the village of Graveney.

SITE SPECIFIC INFORMATION

  • Cleve Hill Solar Park is more than just a renewable energy project; it’s a bold vision for a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future for Kent and beyond. At the heart of the development is a deep commitment to environmental enhancement and local community.

  • Cleve Hill is designed to deliver a remarkable 65% biodiversity net gain, one of the highest of any solar development in the UK. This is being achieved through extensive habitat creation and restoration, including the development of wildflower meadows and protected zones to support vital species such as the Lapwing, Brent Goose, Golden Plover, and Marsh Harrier. Measures have also been taken to enhance the environment for the local water vole population.

  • A dedicated 56-hectare Habitat Management Area ensures long-term protection and stewardship of these landscapes. Integrating ecological restoration at this scale sets a new benchmark for sustainable development.

  • Cleve Hill Solar Park is also making a significant contribution to the local economy and community. Over its lifetime, the project is expected to contribute more than £114 million into the local economy and generate over 2,500 jobs across construction and operations. Local businesses, suppliers, and residents will benefit from new opportunities and continued investment.

  • To further support the community, a Community Benefit Fund has been established to back local initiatives and foster engagement with local residents.