Knowl Green Solar Farm
Supporting Braintree’s clean energy future
The Knowl Green Solar Project is a new renewable energy development located on land at Bakers Road, around one kilometre northwest of Belchamp St Paul in Essex. Planning permission was granted in December 2024, providing the opportunity to bring locally produced clean energy to the Braintree district. Construction is scheduled to begin in September 2025.
The project has been developed in response to rising energy costs, growing concerns around energy security and the urgent need to cut carbon emissions. Braintree District Council’s 2019 climate emergency declaration, together with the UK’s national commitment to reach net zero by 2050, highlights the importance of delivering new renewable energy sources across the region.
Timeline
See how our project timeline progresses and what we do
The project secured planning permission in December 2024 following detailed technical assessments and consultation with local stakeholders. Construction will begin in September 2025 and is expected to take approximately twelve months. Updates will be provided throughout the process, including any changes to the programme or key site activities.
Identify & survey
Engage & tailor
Approvals & construct
Operate & steward
Working with and for communities
The Knowl Green project will deliver clean, reliable solar energy to the local grid, supporting households and businesses with home‑grown renewable power. As the cost of energy continues to impact communities, the project aims to contribute to long‑term stability by generating electricity closer to where it is needed.
Alongside its energy contribution, the project supports Braintree District Council’s climate commitments and will help accelerate the region’s transition away from fossil fuels.
During construction, residents are encouraged to contact the project team with questions or concerns. A quarterly newsletter will share updates on progress, site activities and how the team is managing any issues that arise.
Contact
- Email: info@bsrknowlgreen.co.uk
- Freephone: 0800 058 4283
Residents can sign up to the newsletter by emailing the project team directly.
The Knowl Green Effect
Tonnes CO2 emissions avoided
Avg. domestic households served each year
Approx. acres of land protected by solar parks
Environmental considerations
The project will be delivered with a strong focus on responsible land management. All construction activity will follow best practice to minimise local impact, and the solar design has been planned to integrate sensitively within the surrounding landscape. Further detail on ecology and biodiversity measures will be shared as the project moves closer to construction.