Key facts
Key facts
Overview
Sandon Brook Solar Farm, located in South Essex, is a cutting-edge utility-scale renewable energy project delivered in partnership with Low Carbon. Delivering 55 MWp of solar photovoltaic (PV) capacity and 35 MW of Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), the site can power over 16,500 UK homes with clean, sustainable electricity.
Energised in December 2025 and spanning 242 acres, Sandon Brook reflects Equans’ commitment to enabling the UK’s energy transition through innovative design, robust engineering, and strong ESG collaboration.
This project embodies more than just renewable technology: it is founded on transparency, trust, and community engagement, ensuring that environmental and social responsibilities are embedded from the outset. The site incorporates biodiversity enhancements and works in harmony with traditional agricultural practices such as sheep grazing, demonstrating how large-scale solar farms and farming can coexist sustainably.
Our work
Equans was responsible for the full end-to-end delivery of the PV and BESS systems, encompassing:
- Detailed technical design and system layout for both solar arrays and energy storage
- Civil mechanical installations and electrical works ensuring seamless integration and grid readiness
- Comprehensive testing and commissioning to meet exacting performance and safety standards
- A two year operations and maintenance period to guarantee reliability and optimal long-term performance
From early engagement with Low Carbon and local authorities through construction and commissioning, collaboration and ESG principles were central to the project’s success. Addressing community concerns about traffic, noise, and flood risk upfront built trust and supported smooth delivery. The project also prioritised biodiversity, including pollinator-friendly planting and habitat creation across the 242-acre site.
Impact
The project delivers significant environmental benefits alongside its renewable energy output of 55 MWp DC of solar capacity and 35 MW of battery storage, generating enough clean electricity to power over 16,500 UK homes.
- Biodiversity on the site is forecast to increase by 80%, through rewilding efforts, pollinator‑friendly planting, and natural grazing practices that restore ecological value.
- The project also supports long‑term ecological stewardship with the aim to protect the ecosystem through Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG).
- Land footprint is efficient and multifunctional, with agricultural activity - such as sheep grazing - coexisting alongside renewable energy production.
Testimonials
"From the very start, sustainability and engagement were central to the successful development of Sandon Brook. At Low Carbon we ensure all our solar sites are well-managed with nature a key consideration throughout the design phase helping deliver the dual benefit of creating renewable energy, while actively boosting biodiversity.”
Harriet Parker, Director of ESG and Sustainability, Low Carbon
"Success depends on everyone heading in the same direction. At Sandon Brook, we’ve seen how genuine partnership and transparent collaboration between client, contractor, and community can transform a solar farm into a model of environmental, social, and economic value."
Martin Dowd, Energy Construction Director, Equans UK & Ireland
Our expertise
Equans supports businesses, communities and the public sector by mobilising its expertise to provide low-carbon energy solutions, offer cutting-edge technical and FM services and transformative regeneration across the UK & Ireland.
