EDF power solutions UK has received a development consent order (DCO) from the UK Government's Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, enabling the 800MW Springwell Solar Farm to advance towards construction.
The project is jointly owned by EDF power solutions UK and Luminous Energy, with each holding a 50% stake.
Situated between Sleaford and Lincoln in Lincolnshire, the solar project is set to significantly contribute to the UK’s energy mix by generating enough renewable energy to supply more than 180,000 homes annually once it becomes operational.
The approval comes after a thorough examination process that began with the application submission in November 2024 and involved comprehensive consultations with local communities, stakeholders and statutory bodies.
EDF power solutions UK storage, solar and private wire director Matthew Boulton said: “This decision is an important step forward for Springwell Solar Farm. We welcome the government’s approval following a thorough review of the project.
“I would like to thank everyone who took part in the public examination process and consultations. As the project moves forward, we remain committed to working collaboratively with local communities and partners to reduce the impacts of construction while delivering long-term benefits for the region.”
Alongside energy production, Springwell will feature 12km of footpaths, more than 15km of new hedgerows and a community growing area.
EDF power solutions and Luminous Energy are reviewing the consent details and planning the project's implementation, with community engagement anticipated soon.
Upon completion, plans are in place for Springwell to begin exporting electricity to the national grid by 2029.
This development marks the 25th nationally significant clean energy project approved since July 2024, in line with government efforts to expand clean, homegrown energy and reduce reliance on volatile fossil fuel markets affected by conflicts in the Middle East.
The affordability of solar power, supported by initiatives for solar installations in stores and new homes in England, underlies these measures.
UK Energy Minister Michael Shanks said: “We are driving further and faster for clean homegrown power that we control to protect the British people and bring down bills for good.
“It is crucial we learn the lessons of the conflict in the Middle East – solar is one of the cheapest forms of power available and is how we get off the rollercoaster of international fossil fuel markets and secure our own energy independence.”
In December 2025, Scatec signed shareholder agreements with EDF power solutions and Norfund to establish an equity partnership for Scatec’s Obelisk project in Egypt.
