Renewable energy developer Root-Power has secured planning approval on appeal to build a £45m battery energy storage system (BESS) in Leicestershire.
The company said the 100MW facility, located on the banks of the River Soar near Kegworth, will store surplus low-carbon and renewable electricity and release it back to the National Grid when demand is high.
Root-Power added that the project will connect to local grid infrastructure and support the transition of the former Ratcliffe-on-Soar coal-fired power station site into a clean energy hub.
The developer said the BESS will help safeguard domestic and business electricity users during peak demand periods, reduce price volatility and lower the risk of power outages and blackouts.
The project is expected to create local jobs during construction and aligns with the UK government’s Clean Power 2030 reforms as well as longer-term net zero targets.
Root-Power said it has committed to delivering a high level of biodiversity net gain, forecasting a 71% increase in habitat value and an 82% increase in hedgerows through new habitats and landscaping measures.
During the planning appeal process, the company said it worked closely with the Environment Agency and the Lead Local Flood Authority to address flood risk concerns. Mitigation measures include elevating the facility above ground level to allow floodwater to pass underneath, alongside additional floodwater storage provided by a sunken tank.
“We’re delighted to have won our planning appeal to build this new BESS facility in Leicestershire, as it will greatly benefit local people and play a vital environmental role in storing and supplying renewable energy to meet the sustainability needs of the National Grid,” said Neil Brooks, managing director at Root-Power.
“It will help balance electricity supply during peak grid demand, prevent outages and help stabilise and reduce energy prices that impact thousands of residents and businesses nearby,” he added.
Brooks said the company had fully addressed flooding concerns and committed to significant biodiversity gains, adding that Root-Power looks forward to supplying clean, flexible electricity to the National Grid over the next 15 to 20 years.
