Overview
Snettisham Solar Farm is a 2.7 MW operational solar PV facility in the United Kingdom, owned by Solar Associates. It contributes to the UK's renewable energy capacity under the Contracts for Difference scheme.
Snettisham Solar Farm is a solar photovoltaic (PV) facility located near Snettisham, Norfolk, United Kingdom. With a capacity of 2.7 MW, it is a small-scale solar installation that feeds renewable electricity into the national grid. The facility is owned by Solar Associates and has been operational, supporting the UK's transition to low-carbon energy. The UK solar sector operates under the Contracts for Difference (CfD) framework, which provides stable revenue for low-carbon generators. The facility benefits from the UK's Renewable Obligation and feed-in tariff legacy schemes. Solar PV installations of this scale are typical for ground-mounted arrays in rural areas, contributing to the country's target of net-zero emissions by 2050. The environmental significance of Snettisham Solar Farm lies in its displacement of fossil fuel-generated electricity, reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The site's location in Norfolk, a region with moderate solar irradiance, aligns with the UK's strategy to diversify renewable energy sources. The facility also supports local grid stability and demonstrates the viability of small-scale solar in the UK energy mix.
Environmental context
The Snettisham area in Norfolk features a mix of agricultural land and coastal habitats. Solar farms like this one require land use that may compete with agriculture but can coexist with sheep grazing. The UK's regulatory framework encourages solar development through planning policies that prioritize brownfield and low-grade agricultural land. The facility's small footprint minimizes visual impact, and its operation avoids emissions associated with fossil fuel generation.
Frequently asked questions
Snettisham Solar Farm is located near Snettisham in Norfolk, United Kingdom, at coordinates 52.868000, 0.920200.
Snettisham Solar Farm has a capacity of 2.7 MW, making it a small-scale solar photovoltaic installation.
Snettisham Solar Farm is owned by Solar Associates, a company involved in renewable energy generation.
Solar farms in the UK operate under the Contracts for Difference (CfD) scheme, which provides guaranteed prices for low-carbon electricity. Smaller installations may also benefit from the Smart Export Guarantee.
By generating electricity from solar energy, Snettisham Solar Farm reduces reliance on fossil fuels, cutting greenhouse gas emissions. It supports the UK's net-zero target and promotes renewable energy diversity.