There has been a significant move to renewable energy generation in the past few years, with the UK producing over 50% of its energy from non-carbon sources (i.e. renewable and nuclear). Whilst there has been rapid deployment of renewables development in the way electricity is generated, there is also the need to ensure that the supporting infrastructure is in place so that the electricity generated can be suitably distributed into the national grid.

Balnacraig Battery Energy Storage facility is located to the north of Alness and is proposed to store electricity prior to being released to the grid during peak time requirements at Alness Substation. The proposal for the facility was granted by the Highland Council in December 2023 (Ref:22/05167/FUL).

Following consent, EDP Renewables acquired Balnacraig Battery Storage Limited from Intelligent Land Investments (ILI) Group and took responsibility of developing the design further, including overseeing its construction, owning the asset, and managing the operations.

Since its consent, EDP Renewables have been working with battery suppliers and specialists to refine the design and satisfy pre-commencement conditions.  It is expected that the project will begin construction early next year. Works are expected to finish in Q3 of 2025.

If you would have any further questions about the project, please feel free to contact EDPR via the contact tab above or [email protected]