New Devon solar farm powers thousands of homes after grid connection

A major new solar site in Devon owned by renewable energy company RWE is now operational after being connected to the grid by our engineers.

The 35MW Langford Solar Farm near Cullompton expects to generate around 49,500 megawatt hours of electricity every year - enough to meet the annual needs of approximately 15,000 typical UK homes.

We carried out significant engineering work so the solar park could connect to our high voltage 132kV network.

Jason Baker, NGED’s head of major projects South West said: “This is an important project and its successful delivery is testament to all involved demonstrating a clear commitment to delivering secure, affordable, and clean energy to our customers and communities. Enabling renewable energy generation schemes like this is vital to support the UK energy transition.”

Langford is RWE’s first solar project in the UK to energise.

Katja Wünschel, CEO RWE Renewables Europe & Australia, said: “The energisation of Langford Solar Farm marks an important step for RWE’s solar ambitions in the UK.

“This achievement reinforces our commitment to supporting the energy transition, with solar power playing a pivotal role in delivering secure, sustainable, and affordable energy for the future.”

Langford will have a 40-year lifespan and will be capable of saving 25,000 tonnes of CO2 per year, equal to the annual emissions of more than 15,500 cars.

During its construction, the project supported 70-80 jobs and is expected to deliver annual business rates exceeding £110,000.

Cullompton Town Council was awarded £40,000 through RWE’s UK Solar Developers Charter to support rooftop solar PV and sustainability initiatives.

Designed with biodiversity at its core, Langford Solar Farm aims to deliver more than 50% net gain in habitat and 10% in hedgerows, incorporating species-rich grasslands, wildlife nesting boxes, and preserved corridors to enhance local ecosystems.