Peartree Hill Solar Farm secures crucial GB development consent

• The Peartree Hill Solar Farm development has secured a Development Consent Order (DCO) from the UK government.
• The DCO authorises the construction and operation of a large-scale solar generating station and battery energy storage system in East Yorkshire.
• The project will involve compulsory acquisition of land, including rights in land, and override of easements and other rights.

This move is significant for large-scale renewable energy projects in the UK.

The Peartree Hill Solar Farm development has secured a crucial milestone with the granting of a Development Consent Order (DCO) by the UK government. This Order, known as The Peartree Hill Solar Farm Order 2026, paves the way for the construction and operation of a large-scale solar generating station and battery energy storage system in East Yorkshire. The project will be situated on land to the east of Beverley, with associated development also approved. The DCO authorises the compulsory acquisition of land, including rights in land, as well as the right to use land and override easements and other rights. This move is significant for large-scale renewable energy projects in the UK.

The granting of a DCO is a key step in the development process for major infrastructure projects in the UK, allowing developers to proceed with construction and operation. The Peartree Hill Solar Farm Order 2026 has been made under the Planning Act 2008, which provides for the grant of Development Consent Orders by the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero. This legislation streamlines the planning process for major projects, reducing the time and complexity involved in securing consent. The DCO also reflects the UK government's commitment to increasing renewable energy capacity and meeting its net-zero targets.

The Peartree Hill Solar Farm Order 2026 sets an important precedent for large-scale renewable energy projects in the UK. The compulsory acquisition of land and override of easements authorised by this DCO will be closely watched by lawyers and developers working on similar projects. This development consent order demonstrates the government's willingness to support major infrastructure projects that contribute to the UK's transition to a low-carbon economy. As the UK continues to invest in renewable energy, this Order provides valuable guidance for developers navigating the complex planning process.

Lawyers should watch for the precedent set by this Order, which authorises compulsory acquisition of land and override of easements in connection with large-scale renewable energy projects.

Source: Original reporting via legislation.gov.uk