Headline: £25bn Solar Farm and Data Centre Development Proposed for Norfolk

Date: 15 October 2026

Tags: Energy, Technology, Business, Environment

Summary:

• Evolution Power has proposed a £25bn solar energy and data centre development near King's Lynn, Norfolk.

• The Longmarsh Green Energy project would cover approximately 4,700 acres across two separate sites.

• Plans include a 1.3GW solar and battery facility alongside a 1GW data centre.

• The sites would be located near Tilney St Lawrence, Fincham and Barton Bendish.

• Developers estimate the project could create thousands of construction jobs and more than 500 permanent operational roles.

• If approved, construction is expected to be completed by 2032.

• A public consultation opened on 15 October and will continue until 26 November.

• Evolution Power expects to submit its planning application in April 2027, with ministers responsible for the final decision.

• Local MP James Wild raised concerns about the industrialisation of Norfolk's countryside and the project's environmental impact.

• Developers say renewable energy and closed-loop cooling technology would support AI infrastructure while reducing pressure on local water supplies.

Why this matters: The development could significantly expand Britain's renewable energy generation and data centre capacity, attracting investment and creating employment. However, its scale raises concerns about land use and environmental impacts.

What's next: Residents can submit feedback until 26 November, ahead of the expected planning application in April 2027.