Solar Farm Decommissioning & Reinstatement Feasibility – Lincolnshire

WHLBC PROJECT CASE STUDY

Solar Farm Decommissioning & Reinstatement Feasibility – Lincolnshire

A feasibility assessment was carried out for decommissioning a 24.5-hectare solar park in Lincolnshire and reinstating the land to agricultural use.

Project Overview

Type of Survey:
Solar Farm Decommissioning & Reinstatement Feasibility

Location:
Lincolnshire

Type of Construction:
Ground-mounted solar photovoltaic installation comprising extensive panel arrays, medium-voltage units, underground cabling, access tracks, fencing and CCTV infrastructure.

Our client commissioned WHL Building Consultancy to assess the feasibility of decommissioning a Solar Park and reinstating the land to agricultural use. The approximately 24.5-hectare site comprises three adjoining fields containing extensive ground-mounted photovoltaic arrays, five medium-voltage units, underground cabling, internal access tracks, security fencing and CCTV infrastructure. The assessment reviewed the condition and construction of the installation, environmental risks, regulatory requirements, removal methods and the works needed to restore the subsoil, topsoil, drainage and grass cover. A phased methodology and high-level budget cost plan were prepared to support future planning and procurement.

Key Benefits

Confirmed that the solar farm can be decommissioned using standard plant and established access arrangements.
Produced an indicative decommissioning and reinstatement cost of £811,221.84 excluding VAT.
Set out a five-phase methodology covering planning, disconnection, dismantling, ground reinstatement, monitoring and aftercare.
Addressed WEEE-compliant recycling, waste disposal, ecological supervision, project management and contingency.
Provided a practical basis for restoring the site to agricultural use suitable for grazing or light cropping.

Conclusion

The feasibility assessment confirmed that the Solar Park can be decommissioned and the land reinstated safely and effectively. The modular infrastructure, shallow foundations and established access tracks support an orderly removal process, while the phased methodology identifies the controls needed to protect soils, drainage, habitats and neighbouring land. The accompanying cost plan provides a clear preliminary budget for consultation with the landowner, local planning authority, grid operator and prospective contractors.