The University of Manchester’s journey toward a zero-carbon future continues to make exciting progress with its partnership with Enviromena to supply up to 65% of the University’s electricity demand through the Medebridge Solar Farm in Essex. 

Since signing the agreement in May, significant strides have been made in construction. The solar panels, totalling 104,000 across 175 acres, are now fully installed. Additionally, 350 miles of cabling are being laid to connect the site’s infrastructure. Enviromena has reported strong progress over the past three months, with the large site—spread over three fields—on track to meet key milestones. 

The solar farm has been built entirely on brownfield land, emphasising a commitment to sustainable land use. The central field of the site will host a dedicated biodiversity zone, with enhancements to hedgerows, native grasslands, and wildflower meadows. This will create nesting opportunities for wildlife and improve habitat connectivity, ensuring the project contributes to both clean energy generation and ecological restoration. 

The solar farm is set to be switched on in April 2025, with electricity generation transitioning to full capacity by June 2025. Once operational, it will reduce the University’s carbon emissions by 12,000 tonnes annually. 

For a detailed overview of the project, including its environmental and social impact, see here.