Apatura has received planning approval for a 150MW battery energy storage system (BESS) in Neilston, Paisley, located 17 miles southwest of Glasgow. This approval marks a significant addition to Apatura's expanding BESS portfolio, which now exceeds 1,035MW, further cementing the company's role in advancing net-zero energy infrastructure.
The Neilston project is the sixth BESS that Apatura has successfully secured planning consent for in the last 14 months. Upon completion, the facility is expected to contribute significantly to Scotland's renewable energy targets, including the Scottish Government's aim of generating 50% of the country's energy consumption from renewable sources by 2030. Scotland is also working towards achieving a net-zero energy system by 2045.
Andrew Philpott, Chief Development Officer at Apatura, commented, “We welcome the Scottish Government's decision to approve this essential energy storage project, with no objections from Renfrewshire Council. Scotland is taking a lead role in driving the UK towards its net zero future.”
Philpott further emphasized the strategic importance of the project's location, stating, “The location of this latest energy storage site speaks to the advantageous position of Scotland in delivering resilient energy infrastructure and will be vital in enabling the goals and aspirations outlined by NESO, in their pathways to a Clean Power system for 2030.”
In addition to the battery storage facility, the project will include associated infrastructure and the planting of native species trees to enhance biodiversity. The approval for the Neilston BESS was granted by the Energy Consents Unit on February 4, 2025.
The successful development of the Neilston site further strengthens Scotland's position as a key player in the UK's renewable energy transition, with local communities at the forefront of the push towards a more sustainable energy future.