SSE has officially launched its plans for the Shepway Energy Park project, a major solar and battery development in Romney Marsh, Kent, which could generate enough carbon-free electricity to power approximately 73,000 homes.

The project is expected to save an average of 49,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually.

The development will span six sites located to the north and east of Newchurch village, covering land across both Ashford Borough and Folkestone & Hythe District. If approved, Shepway Energy Park could be operational by 2033.

SSE, which has operated the Medway Power Station since 1995, is the UK's leading developer of renewable energy and says the new project aligns with its commitment to making a positive social, environmental, and economic impact in the communities it serves.

-- Advertisement --

The first phase of public consultation began on 28 May, as SSE seeks feedback from local residents, businesses, and other stakeholders to help shape the proposal from its early stages.

Haveer Dookhit, Senior Project Development Manager at SSE Renewables, said: "We know energy security and climate change are two of the biggest threats our society faces. We need to act now, by investing in clean energy solutions for everyone’s future.

"Understanding the views of local people who live, and work nearby will be key to helping us shape this project.

"Our proposals for Shepway Energy Park will not only help generate more renewable power in the UK and make a significant contribution towards meeting net zero targets but also deliver against local priorities around tackling climate change and generating more electricity from renewable sources.

"We look forward to this opportunity to engage with the local community on our plans during this consultation and encourage those interested locally to attend one of our three upcoming consultation drop-in events and feedback to this consultation."

The consultation period will run for just over six weeks, closing on 13 July. SSE will hold three in-person events throughout June to gather feedback. After the consultation period ends, feedback will be reviewed alongside environmental survey data to inform the next phase of development. SSE has confirmed there will be further opportunities for public input, including a statutory consultation later in the process.