GLOBAL

Afon Ddaw solar and energy storage project

Key numbers

249MWac

solar energy installed capacity

249MW

battery energy storage capacity

123,212

homes powered per year (equivalent)

9,861

estimated tonnes of CO2e avoided annually

2,167

cars taken off the road per year (equivalent)

Current status

Site selection

Preliminary assessments, site design and community engagement

Planning application

Discharge of planning conditions

Construction

Operation

Decommissioning

Lightsource bp is proposing to build, fund and operate a solar and energy storage project, which would provide up to 249 MW of renewable energy – enough to power approximately 123,000 homes annually.

The proposal includes up to 249MW of battery energy storage, which will store energy generated when demand is low and can be released when demand is higher, helping to strengthen resilience across the local electricity network. The project will connect to the National Grid at a planned extension to the Aberthaw Substation via an underground cable.

Alongside providing renewable energy, the project will focus on improving biodiversity on site and delivering local benefits such as a community fund and shared ownership.

The proposed project is located on land between Junction 34 of the M4 and St Athan in the Vale of Glamorgan.

Indicative map of project boundaries. Please note, not all land shown within the boundaries will be used to house solar panels or related equipment.

We sensitively design our projects to minimise and mitigate potential impacts on the local environment. Once constructed our solar farms operate quietly, with very little effect on the surrounding area or local community. Landscaping and biodiversity enhancements will establish in the first few years, creating natural cover that screens views of the site and helps it blend into the surrounding landscape. Biodiversity enhancements on site will benefit the local natural environment throughout the operational lifetime of the site and are designed to continue delivering value well beyond it.

Currently, the project is at an early stage, and environmental and technical surveys are underway to understand and assess the land. As our proposals develop, we will engage with the local community and representatives to ensure they are kept up to date. Updates will be published on this page throughout the development process.

Community Benefit

We believe our projects can create shared value for neighbouring communities through environmental enhancements and dedicated community benefits that leave a lasting positive contribution.

Through a dedicated community benefit fund, we will support local projects and initiatives that:

  • Enhance quality of life.
  • Create growth and development opportunities.
  • Encourage energy efficiency and awareness.

Working with the local community and key stakeholders we will explore opportunities for further benefits through shared ownership.

Your views are important

Engaging with local communities is one of the most important parts of developing project plans. Local views help shape the design and delivery of the project, so that it reflects local priorities, while delivering reliable, renewable energy.

We plan to hold informal consultation events later this year. Further details will be posted on this page nearer the time.

Get in touch

We are always available to assist with any enquiries. You can contact us via email or phone, and this page will be updated regularly as the project progresses

afonddaw@lightsourcebp.com 01446 502754

*Indicates required field