Enviromena, the UK-based independent power producer, has begun construction at the 68MWp Longpasture solar farm in County Durham and launched a £100,000 community benefit fund to support local groups and initiatives.
The start of construction at Enviromena’s second largest UK project to date marks a major milestone for Longpasture, which Enviromena acquired from Bluefield Solar and Lightrock Power last summer. Energisation of the project is targeted in Autumn 2027
Once energised Longpasture will become one of the largest operational solar farms in the north of England and will provide homegrown renewable electricity, helping to reduce the UK’s reliance on imported fossil fuels while strengthening energy security. The solar farm is expected to generate enough clean electricity to power around 14,000 homes each year.
In addition, the project features several ecological enhancements creating significant benefits for nature alongside the generation of clean energy.
The £100,000 community benefit fund will be delivered in two parts. £80,000 will be administered by Point North, the official community foundation for County Durham and Tees Valley, through an application process open to local groups. A further £20,000 will support smaller groups and grassroots initiatives, including sports clubs across the North East, with some funding already allocated.
Lee Adams, Chief Commercial Officer at Enviromena, said:
'We want the benefits of Longpasture to extend well beyond the clean electricity it will generate and the community fund will provide direct support to organisations and grassroots groups doing important work locally.
'Longpasture will play its part in delivering more homegrown renewable energy, strengthening energy security and supporting the transition to a cleaner energy system, while creating a lasting positive legacy for the community around the site.'
Marius Biedka, Senior Investment Manager at Bluefield, said:
'We are delighted to see Bluefield’s commitment to the community fund being brought to life by Enviromena. Successful infrastructure is about more than delivering essential renewable energy assets, it’s also about helping communities thrive. We look forward to seeing the opportunities the fund will create for local organisations, projects and residents.'
Chris Sowerbutts, Founder and Director at Lightrock Power, said:
'Lightrock is pleased that our initial commitment to the community fund is being delivered by Enviromena. We look forward to seeing the fund support local initiatives and provide lasting benefits to the wider community.'
Michelle Cooper, CEO at Point North, said:
'We’re delighted to be working with Enviromena to manage the Longpasture Solar Farm Community Benefit Fund. Community benefit funds are most effective when local people help shape how the funding is used, ensuring support reaches the organisations and projects that matter most. We look forward to working with communities across the area to deliver lasting benefits and make a real difference locally.'
← Enviromena shortlisted in two categories at Green Awards UK 2026
