Recurrent Energy Secures Development Consent Order for 800‑MW Solar‑Storage Project in Lincolnshire

CSIQ
December 02, 2025

Recurrent Energy, a subsidiary of Canadian Solar Inc., received a Development Consent Order (DCO) for the Tillbridge solar and battery storage project in Lincolnshire, England, on December 2, 2025. The DCO, which was granted by the UK Secretary of State in October 2025, authorises the construction of an 800‑MW solar photovoltaic array paired with a 500‑MW/1,000‑MWh battery storage system, making it one of the largest hybrid solar‑storage facilities in the United Kingdom.

The joint‑venture, formed with Tribus Clean Energy, will generate an estimated 857.6 GWh of clean electricity each year, enough to power roughly 300,000 UK homes and avoid more than 15 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions over its lifetime. Construction is expected to create about 1,250 jobs during the build phase, and the project will connect to the National Grid with a 500‑MW import and export capacity, reinforcing grid stability during peak demand periods.

Canadian Solar’s Q3 2025 earnings report highlighted the Tillbridge approval as part of a broader strategy to expand its renewable‑energy pipeline. The company posted net revenues of $1.5 billion, up from $1.4 billion in Q3 2024, driven by strong demand in its energy‑storage division, which shipped 2.7 GWh of battery modules. Gross margin improved to 17.2% from 16.4% year‑over‑year, reflecting higher mix in high‑margin solar‑storage projects and disciplined cost management despite raw‑material price pressure.

Despite the revenue growth, Canadian Solar reported an adjusted net loss of $26 million in Q3 2025, a widening from the $14 million loss in Q3 2024. The loss is largely attributable to one‑time charges related to the expansion of U.S. manufacturing facilities in Indiana and Kentucky, which are expected to begin production in 2026. Management emphasized that these investments are long‑term growth drivers, while short‑term profitability will be impacted by the capital outlay.

The approval of the Tillbridge project aligns with the UK’s net‑zero ambitions, which aim for 95% of electricity from clean sources by 2030. The project’s Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP) status underscores its importance to national energy security, providing a reliable, low‑carbon supply that can mitigate volatility in global gas markets. Local opposition remains, with some community groups concerned about the use of high‑quality agricultural land for large‑scale solar farms.

Management quotes highlight the strategic significance of the project. Ismael Guerrero, CEO of Recurrent Energy, said the project “strengthens grid reliability while delivering tangible community and environmental benefits.” Keith McKinney, General Manager UK & Ireland, added that the project “will give back to the environment and support local communities.”

The market reaction to Canadian Solar’s Q3 earnings was positive, driven by the revenue beat and the company’s strategic focus on U.S. manufacturing. Analysts noted the company’s ability to exceed revenue expectations despite ongoing profitability challenges, and the outlook for the energy‑storage segment remains strong.

Overall, the DCO approval and the company’s financial performance signal a continued emphasis on renewable‑energy expansion, with a clear focus on high‑margin solar‑storage projects and long‑term manufacturing capacity building in the United States. The project’s completion will enhance the UK’s renewable portfolio and support Canadian Solar’s global pipeline growth.

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