The
Springwell Solar Farm Ltd proposal — for a major renewable‑energy scheme featuring solar generation, battery storage and associated grid‑connection works in North Kesteven, Lincolnshire — has taken another step forward following the conclusion of its formal examination. The application, submitted by Springwell Energy Farm in November 2024, was accepted for examination less than a month later, in December 2024.
Over the course of the six‑month process, the Planning Inspectorate gathered evidence from local residents, statutory bodies and other interested parties. According to the Inspectorate, communities affected by such nationally significant energy projects continue to play a central role in shaping the examination, with opportunities to provide input at every stage. The Examining Authority said it carefully considered all views presented during the hearings before finalising its recommendations, which were sent to the Secretary of State on 8 January 2026.
Springwell becomes the 106th energy project out of 174 examined to date to pass through the system, and once again the Inspectorate completed its work within the statutory timetable set out under the Planning Act 2008. The decision, together with the Examining Authority’s recommendation to the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, and the full body of evidence considered, is now publicly available on the
National Infrastructure Planning website.
The final decision was made by Lord Whitehead, acting under the Energy Secretary’s delegated legal authority.