Quinbrook to Build Second Major Solar Project in East Midlands
Quinbrook Infrastructure Partners (“Quinbrook”), a specialist global investment manager dedicated exclusively to infrastructure projects that support the energy transition, has officially announced the acquisition of the 350 MW solar photovoltaic (PV) project, Mallard Pass. Situated on the Rutland-Lincolnshire border in the East Midlands, England, Mallard Pass is poised to be a transformative addition to the UK’s renewable energy landscape. This project represents Quinbrook’s second nationally significant infrastructure project (“NSIP”), following the groundbreaking Cleve Hill Solar project, which was the UK’s first NSIP solar project and is currently in the final stages of construction.
Strategic Importance of Mallard Pass
Mallard Pass is expected to play a crucial role in supporting the UK’s renewable energy ambitions by contributing large-scale solar generation capacity. This project is anticipated to deliver clean energy to thousands of homes and businesses, aligning with the UK’s net-zero emissions targets. The initiative reflects Quinbrook’s ongoing commitment to investing in sustainable energy infrastructure and leveraging its global expertise in renewable energy development.
The construction phase of Mallard Pass is slated to begin in 2026, with commercial operations expected to commence in 2028. Quinbrook plans to apply insights gained from its Cleve Hill Solar project, a similarly sized 373 MW solar farm that is due to begin generating solar power in the near term. Cleve Hill was the first NSIP solar project to secure a Contract for Difference (“CfD”) in July 2022 as part of the UK’s Allocation Round 4. Additionally, in November 2024, Quinbrook secured a landmark corporate power purchase agreement (“PPA”) for Cleve Hill with Tesco, marking the largest corporate solar PPA in the UK to date.
Enhancing the UK’s Energy Security and Sustainability
Large-scale renewable energy projects such as Mallard Pass and Cleve Hill are integral to accelerating the UK’s energy transition and decarbonization efforts. They also contribute significantly to the nation’s energy security by reducing dependence on fossil fuels and mitigating volatility in the energy market.
Keith Gains, Managing Director and UK regional leader for Quinbrook, emphasized the strategic importance of this investment: “Renewable power projects of the scale of Cleve Hill and Mallard Pass help accelerate the UK’s energy transition and decarbonization, along with enhancing the resilience of energy supply. Mallard Pass represents another value-add investment opportunity for Quinbrook in large-scale solar. Quinbrook plans to leverage our extensive global experience in large-scale renewables development, construction, and operations to bring high-quality solar technology and innovation to Mallard Pass, including its demand-side capacity potential.”
Community and Economic Benefits
Beyond its environmental contributions, Mallard Pass is expected to bring significant socio-economic benefits to the local community. Quinbrook has a strong track record of ensuring its infrastructure projects deliver positive regional impacts, and Mallard Pass will be no exception.
The project is anticipated to create over 2,000 direct and indirect jobs throughout its development, construction, and operational phases. This employment impact will span across multiple sectors, including engineering, project management, supply chain logistics, and maintenance services. Moreover, the project is forecasted to generate upwards of GBP 124 million in local socio-economic contributions over its lifespan. These contributions will help stimulate the regional economy, providing business opportunities for local suppliers and service providers.
Quinbrook has consistently emphasized the importance of engaging with local stakeholders and ensuring that communities near its projects reap the benefits. Similar to Cleve Hill, Mallard Pass will include initiatives aimed at fostering collaboration with local businesses, training programs to upskill the workforce, and educational outreach efforts to promote awareness of renewable energy and its importance in combating climate change.
Environmental Impact and Biodiversity Enhancement
The environmental impact of Mallard Pass is expected to be profound. Over its operational lifespan, the project is estimated to produce more than 14 million megawatt-hours (MWh) of renewable electricity, significantly reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. The reduction is estimated at 665,000 tonnes of CO2, which is equivalent to the emissions generated by burning approximately 738,691,906 pounds of coal.
In addition to its role in carbon reduction, Mallard Pass is also designed to prioritize biodiversity and ecological benefits. Quinbrook aims to deliver a 71% biodiversity net gain through various initiatives, including habitat restoration, reforestation, and the enhancement of local ecosystems. This commitment follows Quinbrook’s success at Cleve Hill, where the company achieved a 67% biodiversity net gain through similar strategies.
By integrating green corridors, pollinator-friendly plantings, and conservation-focused land management practices, Mallard Pass is set to serve as a model for how renewable energy infrastructure can coexist harmoniously with natural habitats. This focus on sustainability aligns with the UK’s broader goals of not only transitioning to clean energy but also enhancing environmental resilience and protecting local wildlife.
The Role of Private Investment in the Energy Transition
The acquisition and development of Mallard Pass underscore the vital role of private investment in advancing the UK’s renewable energy transition. Quinbrook, through its specialized expertise and capital allocation, has demonstrated its ability to drive large-scale projects that contribute meaningfully to national and regional energy strategies.
Rosalind Smith-Maxwell, Director at Quinbrook, highlighted the company’s commitment to impactful investment: “Solar projects of this scale play an important role in the decarbonization of the UK grid and our country’s energy security. The investment in Mallard Pass is another excellent example of Quinbrook’s focus on holistic and impactful investment in the infrastructure needed to advance the energy transition.”
By actively participating in the UK’s renewable energy expansion, Quinbrook is supporting the transition away from fossil fuels while ensuring the stability and affordability of energy supply for consumers. As demand for clean energy continues to rise, strategic investments in infrastructure like Mallard Pass will be instrumental in meeting both national and international climate commitments.
Next Steps in the Development Process
With the acquisition of Mallard Pass now complete, Quinbrook and its affiliate, Private Energy Partners, will proceed with the detailed design, procurement, and construction planning. This phase will involve comprehensive assessments to optimize the project’s efficiency, minimize environmental impact, and ensure seamless integration into the national grid.
Given the UK’s ambitious renewable energy targets, projects such as Mallard Pass are critical in achieving long-term sustainability goals. By leveraging advanced solar technologies and incorporating demand-side flexibility, Quinbrook aims to maximize the efficiency and effectiveness of this large-scale solar development.
Mallard Pass represents another milestone in the UK’s transition to a low-carbon energy system. With a proven track record in developing large-scale solar infrastructure, Quinbrook’s latest investment signals a continued commitment to renewable energy expansion. The project’s anticipated economic, environmental, and energy security benefits further underscore the importance of large-scale solar initiatives in achieving the UK’s climate targets.
As the project moves forward, stakeholders—including local communities, government agencies, and industry leaders—will have opportunities to contribute to and benefit from its development. By prioritizing sustainability, innovation, and regional engagement, Quinbrook is positioning Mallard Pass to be a flagship example of how infrastructure investments can drive positive change in the energy landscape.
