As the UK moves toward cleaner, more sustainable energy, solar farms have become one of the most efficient and cost-effective ways to generate renewable electricity on a large scale. At Blue Ape Renewables, we specialise in designing, installing, and maintaining commercial and utility-scale solar farms, ensuring they are profitable, efficient, and built to last.

 



 

If you’re a landowner, investor, or developer considering a solar farm project, this guide will walk you through:

✅ How we evaluate land for a solar farm
✅ Average solar capacity per acre
✅ The grid connection process
✅ Planning approval timelines & structural engineering considerations
✅ How inverters transform solar power for grid use
✅ Grid connection agreements & potential challenges
✅ Funding options for solar farm projects

By the end, you’ll understand what goes into developing a successful solar farm and why Blue Ape Renewables is the go-to expert in large-scale solar PV installations.

 

Evaluating the Land for a Solar Farm

Before installing a solar farm, the first step is selecting the right location. At Blue Ape Renewables, we carry out a comprehensive site assessment to determine if the land is suitable for solar energy production.

 

Key Factors We Look for in Solar Farm Land

1️⃣ Size & Space Requirements

• On average, you can install 4-5 MW of solar PV per 20 acres (approx. 200-250 kW per acre).


• A 1 MW solar farm typically requires 4-5 acres.

💡 Ballpark Figures for Capacity per Acre:

• 1 acre = ~ 250 kW


• 10 acres = ~ 2.5 MW


• 50 acres = ~ 12.5 MW


• 100 acres = ~ 25 MW

2️⃣ Solar Radiation & Orientation

• South-facing, flat, or gently sloping land is ideal for maximum sunlight exposure.


• Shaded areas or land with significant obstructions may not be suitable.

3️⃣ Soil & Ground Conditions

• The land must support the weight of solar mounting structures.


• Poor drainage or flood-prone areas can lead to installation complications.

4️⃣ Access & Proximity to Roads

• Good site access is essential for equipment delivery, installation, and maintenance.


• Narrow roads or difficult terrain can increase project costs.

5️⃣ Distance to the Grid Connection Point

• A solar farm must be close to a viable grid connection, or additional infrastructure will be needed.


• If the grid is too far away, the costs for cabling and installation may make the project unviable.

💡 We assess all these factors to ensure a smooth and cost-effective installation.

 

How Solar Farms Connect to the National Grid

One of the most critical steps in developing a solar farm is securing a grid connection agreement with the Distribution Network Operator (DNO). This agreement allows your solar farm to export electricity to the grid.

 

Steps to Secure Grid Connection Approval

✅ Site Evaluation – Identify the nearest grid connection point and available capacity.
✅ Grid Application Submission – We submit a G99 application to the DNO for approval.
✅ Connection Cost Assessment – The DNO provides a quote for connection costs (which varies based on distance and capacity).
✅ Technical Studies & Load Impact Assessment – Ensure the grid can handle the additional power.
✅ Final Connection Agreement – Once approved, a contract is signed to allow grid export.

 

🔹 Potential Challenges:

• If the local grid infrastructure is at capacity, costly upgrades may be required.


• Some DNOs impose export limits, meaning a battery storage system may be needed to regulate output.

💡 Blue Ape Renewables handles the entire grid application process, ensuring compliance and optimised energy export.

 

Planning Permission for a Solar Farm

Solar farms in the UK require full planning permission, which can be a complex process.

Planning Application Timeline & Process

📅 Step 1: Feasibility Study (1-2 Months)

• Assess land suitability, local planning regulations, and environmental impact.


• Consult with local authorities and stakeholders.

📅 Step 2: Pre-Planning & Surveys (3-6 Months)

• Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)


• Flood Risk Assessment


• Glint & Glare Study


• Heritage & Archaeological Reports

📅 Step 3: Submit Full Planning Application (3-4 Months)

• Local councils review the application and may request modifications.

📅 Step 4: Planning Decision (6-12 Months Total)

• If approved, construction can begin.


• If rejected, modifications or appeals may be required.

💡 Blue Ape Renewables works closely with planning authorities to streamline this process.

 

Structural Engineering & Wind Load Calculations

Solar panel mounting systems must be engineered to withstand wind loads, snow loads, and soil conditions. Our structural engineers perform:

✔ Wind Load Calculations – Ensuring panels won’t be damaged by storms.
✔ Ground Mount Stability Analysis – Designing secure foundations based on soil conditions.
✔ Weight Distribution Studies – Preventing land subsidence and structural failures.

💡 Engineering is crucial to ensure the solar farm remains durable and efficient for 25+ years.

 

How Solar Farms Generate & Convert Electricity

🔹 Step 1: Solar Panels Convert Sunlight into DC Power
🔹 Step 2: Inverters Convert DC to Grid-Compatible AC Power
🔹 Step 3: Transformers Step Up Voltage for Grid Distribution
🔹 Step 4: Electricity is Fed into the National Grid

 

Why Inverters Are Essential

• Solar panels generate direct current (DC) electricity.


• The grid operates on alternating current (AC) at 240V/400V.


• Inverters transform DC into AC, making it usable for homes and businesses.

💡 We use industry-leading inverters to ensure maximum energy efficiency and grid compatibility.

 

Funding a Solar Farm: Options & Considerations

Solar farm projects require significant upfront investment, but multiple funding models are available:

 

1. Self-Funded (Owner-Operator Model)

✔ High return on investment (ROI).
✔ Requires large capital outlay.

 

2. Power Purchase Agreements (PPA)

✔ A business commits to buying solar electricity at a fixed rate.
✔ Solar developers finance and operate the farm.

 

3. Government Grants & Subsidies

✔ Some funding may be available for community or agricultural projects.

 

4. Investor-Backed Funding

✔ Investors provide capital in exchange for a share of revenue.

💡 We help landowners and businesses explore the best funding options to maximise financial benefits.

 

Why Choose Blue Ape Renewables for Solar Farm Installation?

✔ 40+ Years of Renewable Energy Expertise
✔ Turnkey Solar Farm Development & Project Management
✔ In-House Planning, Structural Engineering & Grid Connection Services
✔ Custom Financing & PPA Solutions Available
✔ MCS, NAPIT & RECC-Certified Installers

 

📞 Call us today for a consultation: 0151 452 4085
📧 Email us: info@blueaperenewables.co.uk

💡 Power your future with large-scale solar energy—partner with Blue Ape Renewables today! 🚀☀️