The University of Manchester will begin powering its campus with renewable electricity from a new solar farm, marking a key milestone in its goal of becoming zero carbon by 2038.

The construction of Medebridge, located at Ockendon, Essex, commenced in April 2024. Comprising of around 104,000 solar panels across 175 acres, the site will generate more than 72GWh of electricity annually, 80 per cent (58GWh) of which will be purchased directly by the University over the next decade.

Developed in partnership with Enviromena, the project is part of a ten-year corporate power purchase agreement (CPPA), facilitated by EDF and supported by Inspired. It is the UK’s largest solar CPPA with an educational institution.

Professor Nalin Thakkar, VP for social responsibility at The University of Manchester, said: “The University’s new long-term solar power agreement is a landmark moment in our journey to zero carbon. By entering into this corporate Power Purchase Agreement, we are directly supporting the development of new UK renewable energy while significantly cutting our own emissions.”

In addition to emission reduction, the site will also create a significant biodiversity net gain. Enhancements to the existing hedgerows and planting of native grassland and wildflower meadow beneath and around the solar arrays will encourage nesting opportunities for wildlife and improved habitat connectivity.

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