Shell Inks Two Partnerships for 800 MW UK Solar Projects

Anglo-Dutch oil and gas giant Shell has inked two deals with London-based companies for the development of utility-scale solar PV projects, totalling over 800 MW capacity, in the UK.

Shell has signed a framework agreement with the renewable energy developer Island Green Power to develop solar PV projects with co-located battery storage potential, with an initial collaboration on over 700 MW total generating capacity.

Shell has also partnered with Clearstone Energy to develop several utility-scale solar PV projects in the South-East of England. The Clearstone Energy projects have a total combined export capacity of 100 MW with co-located storage potential, enabling Shell to generate renewable power close to customer demand. Both deals would be subject to a future final investment decision.

David Bunch, Chairman, Shell UK said: “Shell is building an integrated power business which spans the renewable generation, trading and supply of clean energy to businesses and consumers. We will work with both Island Green Power and Clearstone Energy to deliver high-quality solar PV projects to supply more of our UK customers with renewable power.”

Shell has set a global target to be a net zero emissions energy business by 2050, in step with society. Increasing renewable power generation will play a key role in delivering the strategy, as well as supporting the UK in meeting its net zero 2050 goal.

Last month, the energy major also committed to invest 3 billion reais ($565 million) by 2025 in renewable energy in Brazil, for which it has launched a new division, Shell Energy Brazil, in the country. Most of the capex is related to solar energy projects,  and according to the head of renewable development for Latin America, Gabriela Oliveira, Shell has 2GW of solar energy projects under development and expects to reach 5GW by year-end. The company also intends to launch an offshore wind development campaign this year, Oliveira added.