Solar farms can keep UK’s lights on even at night

Trial shows panels can smooth voltage fluctuations in the National Grid

Solar farms could soon play a vital role in the energy system 24 hours a day, after a breakthrough trial proved they can even help balance the grid at night. National Grid used a solar farm in East Sussex to help smooth overnight voltage fluctuations for the first time earlier this month, proving solar farms don't need sunshine to help keep the lights on.

Lightsource BP, the owner of the solar farm, said an inexpensive tweak to the project's electrical equipment meant it could help balance the grid with only two seconds' notice. Kareen Boutonnat, the company's chief operating officer, said: "We have proven that solar plants can play a larger role across the electricity network. But this is only the beginning."

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