RES has submitted a planning application for the Killymallaght battery project in Northern Ireland, designed to enhance grid stability. Located near Killymallaght substation, approximately 2.5 km southeast of Newbuildings in County Derry/Londonderry, the project aims to balance the supply and demand on the region's electricity grid.
According to RES, energy storage systems are vital for managing the complex supply and demand dynamics of modern electricity needs and for achieving Northern Ireland's net-zero targets. These systems provide reliable solutions for managing intermittent and weather-dependent electricity generation from renewable sources. They are particularly effective in responding quickly to sudden spikes in demand or abrupt losses of supply, helping to maintain grid balance and prevent blackouts.
The Killymallaght project is strategically sited close to substations to minimize electrical losses and improve system efficiency while reducing potential environmental impacts. RES has conducted extensive site surveys and pre-application consultations to ensure that any effects on the environment, landscape, heritage, and local residents are mitigated.
Peter Deeney, RES development project manager, highlighted the importance of site screening based on feedback from local consultations. The proposal includes the construction of earth bunds with native planting and infill hedgerow planting to reduce visibility and enhance biodiversity.
Addressing concerns regarding food security, Deeney stated that the primary threat to food security is climate change, and projects like Killymallaght are crucial for accelerating the rollout of renewable energy, which directly addresses climate change impacts.
The Killymallaght energy storage proposal is anticipated to be reviewed by the Derry City and Strabane District Council's Planning Committee in the coming months. If approved, construction is expected to take around 12 months.
