Shepway Energy Park
Shepway Energy Park is proposed for six areas of land north and east of Newchurch on the Romney Marsh. The proposals are largely within the Folkestone and Hythe district however a small element is located within the Ashford borough.
The proposal is for a solar and battery development capable of delivering about 200 MW of renewable electricity and would be able to store 400 MW.
It has been put forward by SSE Renewables. The company states that the park would produce enough carbon-free electricity to power about 73,000 homes and save an average of 49,000 tonnes of CO2 every year.
The area has been selected, according to SSE, because it is flat and has good levels of sunshine all year - about 10% more solar irradiance (the measure of the sun’s intensity over a given area) than other parts of Kent.
The site is also near to the existing Dungeness to Sellindge overhead line corridor operated by the National Grid.
SSE proposes “no build” buffer zones at field edges near to homes or businesses. It also states that there will be identified areas for landscaping and habitat enhancements.
Consideration will also be given to existing public rights of way over the site.
Size
The proposal is for six areas totalling 406.1 hectares (1003.4 acres) of agricultural land. SSE states that not all the land will be developed.
Consultation
SSE consulted the public, during what was described as its first phase of engagement, during May, June and July 2025.
The company states that after reviewing feedback it will then undertake more engagement with communities as its proposal is developed further.
Decision maker
As the development proposes to produce in excess of 100 MW the application has to be submitted to the Planning Inspectorate. After the proposals have been scrutinised and the planning inspectors have made a recommendation, the final decision will be made by the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero.
As the local authority, Folkestone & Hythe District Council will be consulted on the final planning proposal.