Decision

Execution of the Engineering, Procurement and Construction Contract for Barkham Solar Farm to Equans

Reasons for the decision

In September 2021 Council approved the Barkham Solar Farm project, including delegated authority to the Director of Resources and Assets to finalise the scheme subject to its annual net income after capital financing costs remaining above £200,000.
In June 2022 the procurement strategy for the construction contract was approved at a Special Executive Council meeting.
In July 2026 the Executive noted the update on the Barkham Solar Farm project and that the Deputy Chief Executive (S151 Officer), in consultation with the relevant Lead
Member, is progressing the project in accordance with the delegated authority approved by Executive and Council in 2021
The procurement and contract negotiation stage has now completed and the construction contract, in line with the authorities granted above, can now be executed.

Alternative options considered

A competitive procurement process was undertaken in line with the procurement strategy agreed in June 2022 and identified Equans as the preferred contractor.
Executive in July 2026 considered an update on the Barkham Solar Farm project, including the current grid connection position, programme status and implications of further delay and residual risks and notes that the project was being progress in accordance with the delegated authority approved by Executive and Council in 2021.