Overview
Peterlee Solar Farm is a 5 MW operational solar PV facility in the United Kingdom, developed by Zaravolt Development. It contributes to the UK's renewable energy capacity under the Contracts for Difference scheme.
Peterlee Solar Farm is a 5 MW solar photovoltaic (PV) facility located in the United Kingdom, developed by Zaravolt Development. The plant is operational and contributes to the country's growing solar energy portfolio, which is a key component of the UK's net-zero emissions target by 2050. The facility operates under the UK's regulatory framework, which includes the Contracts for Difference (CfD) scheme that provides stable revenue for low-carbon electricity generation. Solar PV technology converts sunlight directly into electricity, and at 5 MW, this plant is considered a small-to-medium scale installation, typical for ground-mounted solar farms in the UK. Peterlee Solar Farm supports the UK's transition to renewable energy by generating clean electricity, reducing reliance on fossil fuels, and contributing to local grid stability. The plant's location in the North East of England aligns with regional renewable energy targets and helps diversify the energy mix in the area.
Environmental context
Solar farms like Peterlee Solar Farm require land use for panel installation, which can impact local ecosystems and agricultural land. However, they produce no direct emissions during operation and have a low water footprint. The UK's temperate climate provides moderate solar irradiance, making solar PV a viable but less efficient option compared to sunnier regions. Proper siting and biodiversity management can mitigate visual and land-use impacts.
Frequently asked questions
Peterlee Solar Farm is located in the United Kingdom, near the town of Peterlee in County Durham, North East England.
Peterlee Solar Farm has a capacity of 5 megawatts (MW), making it a small-to-medium scale solar photovoltaic installation.
Peterlee Solar Farm is owned by Zaravolt Development, a company involved in renewable energy projects.
Solar farms in the UK benefit from the Contracts for Difference (CfD) scheme, which provides price stability for low-carbon electricity, and are part of the UK's strategy to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
Solar PV technology converts sunlight directly into electricity using semiconductor materials. Panels are typically mounted on the ground or rooftops, and the generated electricity is fed into the grid or used on-site.