1.3GW solar farm and 1GW data centre proposed in Norfolk
Author: Joe Peck
EPL Norfolk, a subsidiary of UK-based independent energy developer Evolution Power, has announced plans for Longmarsh Green Energy, a proposed 1.3GW solar farm and battery project alongside a 1GW data centre campus near King’s Lynn in west Norfolk.
A community consultation on the proposal is set to from 15 October to 26 November 2026.
The project comprises two sites: one northeast of Tilney St Lawrence and another near Fincham and Barton Bendish. The development would connect to the existing transmission network substation at Walpole, with a connection date expected in 2031.
The proposed data centre campus is expected to attract more than £25 billion in regional investment. According to EPL Norfolk, it would create thousands of construction jobs, more than 500 direct operational roles, and support a further 1,500 jobs.
Renewable power and regional investment
The company says the combination of local offshore wind generation and 1.3GW of colocated solar capacity would allow the campus to be powered predominantly by locally sourced renewable energy.
It also proposes a closed-loop cooling system that recirculates liquid rather than continually drawing water from mains supplies.
A spokesperson for the project says, “Longmarsh Green Energy would bring significant local and national economic benefits, providing secure renewable energy and data centre capacity, both of which are critical for future UK economic growth.
“Our design includes measures and commitments to reduce local effects, and we welcome feedback on these, together with suggestions regarding how the project could support local community projects and initiatives.”
