Fitcher Brook SolarFarm
About this Project
Fitcher Brook Solar Farm is a major two-phase renewable energy project located northwest of Worcester city centre, developed by Empower Projects through its SPV Birchall Green Solar Farm Limited.
Phase 1 proposes 25 MWp of ground-mounted solar connected to the distribution network at 130 MVA, while Phase 2 expands the site significantly with a further 115 MWp of solar and a 130 MW battery energy storage system. The combined development would position Fitcher Brook as one of the most significant hybrid renewable energy projects in the West Midlands region. A modification application is required to increase the Phase 1 PV capacity from the currently consented 20 MW to 100 MW, and a National Grid application will be filed once the relevant connection window opens.
Planning Status and Milestones
Planning Approved
Phase 1 planning has been submitted and validated. A grid offer for 20 MW solar and 130 MW BESS has been accepted, and a modification application is being prepared to increase PV capacity to 100 MW.
Advanced Planning Stage
Phase 2 planning has not yet commenced and will begin after Gate 2 results.
Connection Details
The project connects to an existing 132kV transmission line near Birchall Farm, Sinton Green, within NGED’s West Midlands licence area. The connection at 132kV level is unusually high for a project of this scale, reflecting the available capacity on this circuit. Export capacity is set at 130 MVA for Phase 1, with connection costs of £24.3 million. The 130 MW BESS component provides flexible import and export capability, supporting grid stability in the NGED network.
Site and Surrounding Area
The site occupies rural pastoral fields at Hallow, approximately 5 miles northwest of Worcester city centre within Malvern Hills District. The area is characterised by hedgerow-bounded farmland with scattered trees and public rights of way. Notably, the site lies immediately adjacent to Monkwood Nature Reserve, a nationally important ancient woodland designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Biodiversity net gain and ecological enhancement will form a core component of the project’s environmental commitments throughout its 40-year operational life.
Current Status
Planning
Submitted &
Validated (Ph.1)
Land
Option Signed (Ph.1) /
HOTs Signed (Ph.2)
Grid Offer
Offer Accepted
(Ph.1)
Development Phases
| Phase | Phase 1 | Phase 2 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solar (MWp) | 25 MWp | 115 MWp | |
| BESS (MW/Hr) | - | 130 MW / 1 Hr | |
| Wind (MW) | - | - | |
| Grid AC | 130 MVA | - | |
| Connection | 2037 (Subject to Gate 2) | TBC (after Phase 1 consent) |