Norchard Solar Farm
About this Project
Norchard Solar Farm is a phased renewable energy project located at Norchard Farm in the Severn Valley, Worcestershire. Developed by Empower Projects through its SPV Norchard Solar Farm Limited, the development spans three integrated phases that progressively introduce solar generation and battery storage to the local distribution network.
Phase 1 delivers 8.75 MWp of ground-mounted solar, Phase 2 expands capacity with a further 17 MWp, and Phase 3 introduces a 50 MW battery energy storage system to complement and firm the combined output. Together, the three phases are expected to generate sufficient clean energy to power thousands of homes across the region while supporting the stability of the local grid.
Planning Status and Milestones
Planning Approved
Planning consent secured. Grid offer accepted. Programme of Works currently under negotiation with the DNO. Land secured with Option Agreement signed.
Advanced Planning Stage
Application at advanced stage; approval expected Q1 2026. Land secured with Option Agreement signed.
Not Yet Commenced
Planning will follow once Gate 2 grid results and Phase 2 consent are secured. Land secured with Option Agreement signed.
Connection Details
The project connects into the local National Grid Electricity Distribution (NGED) network at the Norchard connection point. Phase 1 and Phase 2 share the Norchard connection at 25 MVA export, while Phase 3 introduces a separate Norchard 3 connection point with 52.63 MVA export and 50 MVA import capacity. The Gate 2 grid offer for Phase 3 has been accepted, with securities and connection cost to be confirmed upon Gate 2 results. Total connection securities for Phases 1 and 2 are £2.25 million, with Phase 3 connection costs estimated at £8.87 million.
Site and Surrounding Area
Situated in the rural Severn Valley in north Worcestershire, the site occupies gently rolling pastoral farmland at Crossway Green, a small hamlet within Hartlebury Parish. Stourport-on-Severn lies approximately 3 miles to the northwest, with Kidderminster 5 miles north and Worcester 8 miles south. The River Severn flows a few miles to the west, and the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal passes nearby. The wider area forms part of the historic English Midlands agricultural landscape, with heritage landmarks including Hartlebury Castle and Witley Court within close proximity.
Current Status
Planning
Approved (Ph.1) /
Advanced (Ph.2)
Land
Option Signed
(All Phases)
Grid Offer
Accepted
(Ph.1 & Ph.3)
Development Phases
| Phase | Phase 1 | Phase 2 | Phase 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solar (MWp) | 8.75 MWp | 17 MWp | - |
| BESS (MW/Hr) | - | - | 50 MW / 1Hr |
| Wind (MW) | - | - | - |
| Grid AC | 25 MVA | - | 52.63 MVA |
| Connection | Oct 2027 (Planned) | TBC | 2037 (Subject to Gate 2) |