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OnPath Energy announced financial close on 28 October for Common Farm Solar Park near Dinnington, east of Sheffield. NatWest provided financing for the combined solar and battery project, including a term loan and ancillary facilities supporting construction and operation. The announcement does not disclose a financing amount.
The development combines 49 megawatts of solar generation with a 50-megawatt battery designed for two hours of discharge. These ratings describe different functions and should not be added together as solar generating capacity. Construction is under way, with completion targeted for mid-2027.
The solar asset has a long-term, subsidy-free route-to-market contract with an unnamed global technology company. A separate third-party optimisation agreement covers the battery. AECOM is lead consultant, while Grupotec is responsible for design, engineering, procurement and construction, as well as subsequent operations and maintenance.
Consultation continues over an annual community-benefit package of approximately £50,000. That planned support is separate from the project-financing facilities and from benefits already paid. Financial close advances funding for the development, while completed construction, commissioning and actual electricity output remain ahead.