ScottishPower Renewables aims to install 0.9 gigawatts (GW) of energy storage technology by 2030 to keep the electricity grid secure and stable as we move to Net Zero.
What is Battery Storage?
Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) is technology that stores electrical energy in batteries for later use. These systems play a crucial role in managing the variability and intermittency of renewable energy sources like solar and wind. During periods of excess energy production, such as when the sun is shining and the wind is blowing strongly, a BESS system stores the surplus energy.
Role of BESS
BESS developments play a key role in contributing towards net zero and increasing energy security in the UK. Once charged, they are on standby to provide services to the National Grid, enhancing control and flexibility. The battery works by being charged by an operating renewable generator such as wind, solar or hydrogen. The energy is stored and then fully discharged or used in bursts as and when required to keep the electricity network stable by balancing supply and demand.
The battery also enhances the capability of storing excess energy from renewable generation at times when demand is low or wind/solar energy is high - for instance at night, and released at time of high demand and lower wind.
Whitelee Windfarm BESS
Whitelee Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), co-located at Ardochrig with Whitelee Windfarm, has been operational since late 2022. The BESS uses lithium-ion battery technology; the same type of battery used in a smartphone.
Comprising 50MW of energy storage capacity it's the largest windfarm battery in the UK and has the equivalent energy storage capacity of almost 4 million smartphones, and similarly, is capable of achieving full charge in around an hour.
We have submitted another application to the Scottish Government's Energy Consent Units for a second Battery site at Whitelee. This project is progressing through the planning process and is proposed to be cojoined to solar and green hydrogen developments.
Our Sites
We plan for BESS to grow in the UK in order to strengthen the UK's energy grid and our supply of power during peak times. To do this, multiple BESS sites are needed to maximise our storage capacity. See our site locations and capacity below.
Sites in Development
| Project Name | Location | Project Capacity | Status |
| Dersalloch BESS | The project is co-located with Dersalloch Windfarm, South Ayrshire | 50MW | Site was consented in November 2021 and is at discharge of planning conditions phase. |
| Black Law BESS | The project is co-located with Black Law Extension Wind Farm, North Lanarkshire, South Lanarkshire and West Lothian Council | 100MW | Site was consented in August 2022 and is at the discharge of planning conditions phase. |
| Kilgallioch BESS | The project is co-located with Kilgallioch Wind Farm, South Ayrshire. | 100MW | Site was submitted to the Scottish Government’s Energy Consents Unit in January 2021 and is at the planning phase. |
| Gormans BESS (Phase 2) | The project is located in County Meath, Ireland. | 100MW | Site was consented in March 2021 and is at the discharge of planning conditions phase. |
Sites Under Construction
| Project Name | Location | Project Capacity | Status |
| Harestanes BESS | The project is co-located with Harestanes South Windfarm, Dumfries and Galloway. | 50MW | Construction works for the project commenced in July 2022. |
Operational Sites
| Project Name | Location | Project Capacity | Status |
| Whitelee BESS | The project is co-located with Whitelee Windfarm in Eaglesham | 50MW | Site became operational in October 2022. |
| Barnesmore BESS | The project is co-located with Barnesmore Windfarm, County Donegal | 3MW | Site became operational in October 2022. |
| Gormans BESS | The project is located in County Meath, Ireland. | 50MW | Site became operational in June 2022. |
Please note that Power Capacity figures are proposed figures and are subject to change throughout the planning and construction process.