The 40MW solar farm, located on 79 hectares of Grey Belt land alongside the busy A1(M), is projected to be deliver over £6.5million in Business Rates payments directly the council during its lifespan. Furthermore, through creation of local employment opportunities during construction and ongoing operation, further economic growth into the tens of millions could be delivered in Doncaster and the across the wider South Yorkshire region as part of the project.
The project, which will be funded entirely by private investment with no government subsidies, is being brought forward by Enviromena, a UK-based clean energy developer and operator backed by a UK pension fund. Enviromena manages nearly 400MW of renewable energy projects across the UK and Europe, with a pipeline exceeding 3GW.
If planning is consented, Enviromena will look to work closely with Doncaster Council’s economic growth and business support teams to maximise the involvement of the local supply chain and workforce. Early-stage engagement with the Business Doncaster team and local businesses is underway to ensure the scheme delivers long-term value to the community.
In addition, and in line with Enviromena’s principle that solar should power communities as well as homes, a £200,000 community benefit fund has been ringfenced, which will be distributed through Point North Community Foundation.
Point North is a UK-based charity which provides grants to community groups and voluntary organisations via an application process. Since its founding in 1995, the organisation has distributed more than £71 million in grants. As a trusted partner, they will help ensure the Marr Solar Farm fund reaches areas of greatest need.
The company is also launching a fully-funded schools programme in partnership with Earth Energy Education. The initiative will deliver curriculum-linked sessions before, during and after construction, aimed at inspiring young people to explore careers in renewable energy and sustainability. The programme will feature hands-on workshops and site visits aiming to bring science off the page and into the real world.
Doncaster Council’s planning committee is set to decide on this major investment in December 2025. Having addressed comments raised by statutory consultees throughout the planning application process, the project is being recommended for approval by the Council’s planning officers.
Lee Adams, Chief Commercial Officer at Enviromena, said: “Marr Solar Farm reflects our commitment to creating genuine, long-term value for the communities we work in.
“This is a significant opportunity for Doncaster. Once approved, the project will bring substantial financial investment to the area, reaching into the tens of millions, alongside long-term employment and community benefits.”
