RWE Energises First UK Solar Farm as Langford Powers Up
RWE has officially brought its Langford Solar Farm in Devon online, marking a significant milestone as the company’s first operational solar energy project in the United Kingdom. With an installed capacity of 35 megawatts (MW) AC, the Langford site is expected to generate approximately 49,500 megawatt hours (MWh) of electricity each year—enough to power around 15,000 average UK homes annually.
The energisation of Langford highlights RWE’s growing investment in renewable energy across the UK, particularly in solar power and battery storage. The project is one of 11 solar developments currently under construction by RWE in England, which collectively total nearly 530 MW of solar capacity and an additional 105 MW of co-located battery storage systems. This expansion reinforces RWE’s commitment to supporting the UK’s transition to a low-carbon energy future.
Langford Solar Farm is also home to a co-located 35 MW AC battery energy storage system, which is presently under construction and expected to be operational in the coming weeks. Once complete, the integrated site will offer flexible and reliable renewable energy generation, contributing to grid stability and helping balance supply and demand during peak usage.
Over its expected 40-year operational lifespan, Langford Solar Farm is projected to prevent over 25,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions annually—equivalent to the yearly emissions from more than 15,500 cars. This substantial reduction underscores the vital role that utility-scale solar plays in the broader decarbonisation of the UK’s energy mix.
Katja Wünschel, CEO of RWE Renewables Europe & Australia, emphasised the strategic importance of this project, stating:
“The energisation of Langford Solar Farm marks an important step for RWE’s solar ambitions in the UK, and is a testament to the dedication, expertise, and passion of our team. 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 Solar Farm is just the beginning; with our broad company expertise, we are expanding our UK solar footprint, supporting the country’s clean power ambitions and delivering a lasting positive impact for our neighbouring communities.”
Beyond generating clean energy, Langford Solar Farm reflects RWE’s ongoing dedication to community engagement and environmental stewardship. Guided by the company’s UK Solar Developers Charter, the project includes a £40,000 community benefit fund awarded to Cullompton Town Council. These funds will support the development of rooftop solar PV systems and other local sustainability initiatives, helping to extend the impact of renewable energy to households and businesses across the region.
During its construction phase, the Langford project provided employment for 70–80 workers, contributing to local economic activity. Once operational, it is expected to deliver annual business rates exceeding £110,000, providing an additional financial boost to the local authority.
Environmental considerations have been integrated into every aspect of the project’s design. The solar farm is expected to deliver a biodiversity net gain of over 50% in habitat quality and a 10% net gain in hedgerow cover. Enhancements include the creation of species-rich grasslands, installation of wildlife nesting boxes, and the maintenance of ecological corridors to support local flora and fauna. These measures aim to not only mitigate the impact of development but to actively improve the surrounding natural environment.
Langford Solar Farm’s launch comes at a time when solar energy is increasingly recognised as a cornerstone of the UK’s energy future. The government’s recently published Solar Roadmap and Clean Power Action Plan outline an ambitious target of 45 to 47 gigawatts (GW) of solar capacity by 2030. Projects like Langford are instrumental in meeting this goal, helping to deliver affordable, reliable, and zero-carbon energy at scale.
As RWE continues to invest in solar and battery projects across the UK, Langford represents both a symbolic and practical first step in a broader journey to decarbonise the nation’s electricity grid, support rural communities, and create a more sustainable future.
