Around 5,800 solar panels are being installed on reclaimed county council-owned land next to Williamthorpe Country Park, off the A617 Mansfield Road, where Williamthorpe Colliery once stood.
Funded by us and East Midlands Combined County Authority, the small solar farm aims to produce around 3 million kWh of electricity each year – enough to power around 700 homes.
A review of county council-owned property found that the 10-acre site at Williamthorpe was the most suitable site for renewable energy generation from solar power.
Once complete, the site will generate clean, renewable electricity, supporting sustainable energy production and creating future income for us by selling the energy back to the National Grid.
We have commissioned Custom Solar, part of Mitie Power & Grid to carry out the work, including preparing the land, installing solar panels and electrical equipment and connecting the site securely to the National Grid.
The panels will be positioned to maximise energy generation and are designed to operate for at least 30 years.
Wildflower seeding and tree planting have also been included in the plans for the site to help improve the habitat for wildlife and insects and help to screen the site from view.
Councillor Carol Wood, our Cabinet Member for Environment, said:
“Recent events on the world stage have shown the importance of energy security.
“We’re committed to supporting initiatives that contribute to energy security and efficiency, including clean energy, where it is reliable, affordable, and delivers clear benefits to residents – without increasing costs or reducing local choice.
“While the land at Williamthorpe has been reclaimed, its use is limited and it’s not suitable for growing crops. With the help of funding from East Midlands Combined County Authority, we’re putting this land back to good use to generate income for the council, benefiting local council tax-payers for years to come.”
Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, said:
“This project shows how we can turn land used in our region’s industrial heritage into a source of clean, reliable energy. By investing in sites like Williamthorpe, we are generating homegrown renewable power, creating long-term value for communities, and supporting the transition to a more sustainable regional economy.
“Through the Mayoral Renewable Fund, we are working with partners to deliver practical projects which reduce energy bills, cut emissions, and ensure the East Midlands leads the way in building a greener future for everyone.”
It is expected the installation and connection to the National Grid will be complete by the end of July 2026.