BayWa, in collaboration with Grüne Energien Solar, has received official consent for their planning application to construct a substantial battery energy storage system (BESS) in the United Kingdom. This pivotal development will see the creation of the Meadow Farm battery, boasting a capacity of 57 megawatts (MW) and a storage capacity of 171 megawatt-hours (MWh). Located in Stockton-on-Tees in north-east England, this BESS facility is poised to play a critical role in bolstering local electricity grid stability and facilitating the integration of renewable energy sources.
The Meadow Farm battery's primary objective is to provide essential flexibility to the local electricity system. By doing so, it will enable the seamless integration of renewable generation onto the grid, thereby advancing the United Kingdom's transition toward a cleaner environment and a greener economy.
In addition to its core energy storage function, BayWa r.e., the driving force behind this initiative, has also placed a strong emphasis on environmental stewardship. The project includes measures aimed at enhancing local biodiversity, such as the planting of native grassland, wildflowers, hedgerows, and trees. These efforts are expected to yield a significant biodiversity net gain, with a surplus of more than 28% for habitats and more than 14% for hedgerows.
Commenting on this milestone, John Milligan, Managing Director of BayWa r.e. UK, remarked, “BESS facilities like Meadow Farm allow flexibility within the national electricity transmission, complementing renewable energy generation profiles. Having successfully secured planning approval for our first standalone BESS project in the UK reflects our ongoing dedication and growth in delivering innovative projects.”
This project also signifies a significant leap forward in BayWa r.e.'s storage capabilities. Julian Gerstner, Head of Storage EMEA at BayWa r.e., expressed enthusiasm about the development, stating, “We are thrilled to bring our storage capabilities to the next level with our largest standalone storage project in the UK to date and one of our biggest in Europe. The development of large BESS projects – either connected with renewable energy plants or as stand-alone – demonstrates the full potential of green energy, bringing grid flexibility and stability, as well as contributing significantly to the acceleration of the energy transition.”
