Solar-Powered Data Center Campus Proposed in Lincolnshire, UK

Why It Matters

The project brings renewable‑powered digital infrastructure to a region with virtually no data‑centre capacity, potentially spurring local economic growth and setting a sustainability benchmark for UK data hubs.

Key Takeaways

• Rivington Energy proposes 20‑acre data centre campus in Conesby, Lincolnshire.
• Campus will include 12,500 sqm of data‑centre space powered by on‑site solar.
• Adjacent 80‑acre solar farm will supply renewable electricity to the facility.
• Closed‑loop cooling system aims to cut water consumption.
• Project adds critical infrastructure to a region with one existing data centre.

Pulse Analysis

The UK’s push for greener digital infrastructure is gaining momentum, and Rivington Energy’s latest proposal exemplifies that trend. The company plans a 20‑acre Conesby Data Centre Campus near Scunthorpe, featuring 12,500 sqm of modular data‑centre space. By integrating a purpose‑built solar farm on an adjacent 80‑acre plot, the development aims to power the facility primarily with renewable energy. Rivington, backed by investment firm Federated Hermes, has already begun pre‑application consultations with North Lincolnshire Council, signaling a fast‑track timeline that could see construction commence as early as next year.

Beyond its renewable power source, the campus incorporates a closed‑loop cooling system designed to slash water usage—a critical consideration in a region where water resources are increasingly scrutinized. The on‑site solar array, spread across 80 acres, will generate enough electricity to meet the majority of the data centre’s load, reducing reliance on the national grid and lowering carbon emissions. Rivington’s expertise in solar and battery‑storage projects positions it to deliver a resilient energy mix, while the modular design allows for future capacity expansion without additional land acquisition.

The Conesby project arrives at a time when Lincolnshire’s data‑centre footprint is almost negligible, with only a single operational facility recorded by Data Centre Map. By introducing a sizable, renewable‑powered campus, Rivington could catalyze regional economic growth, attract tech firms, and create skilled jobs. The proposal also competes with larger initiatives such as the 1 GW Humber Tech Park near Hull, highlighting a broader shift toward green‑focused data hubs across the north of England. If approved, the campus may set a benchmark for sustainable data‑centre design in the UK.