Urgent: UK Power Grid Strengthened with 130 MWh of New Battery Storage – Eku Energy & NHOA Energy Lead the Charge
London, UK – August 6, 2024 – In a significant boost to the UK’s energy infrastructure, Eku Energy and NHOA Energy today announced the full operational status of two large-scale battery energy storage systems (BESS) in Basilden, Essex, and Lauderwater, Buckinghamshire. This development, a key piece in the puzzle of a more resilient and sustainable energy future, comes at a critical time as the UK navigates increasing demands on its power grid and accelerates its transition to renewable sources.
Boosting Grid Reliability with Cutting-Edge Battery Technology
The combined capacity of the two projects reaches 130 MWh, designed to deliver essential balanced services and auxiliary support to the National Grid. The Basilden facility boasts a 28-megawatt BESS with 56 MWh of storage, strategically located near existing solar and gas power plants to optimize local grid operations. HabitatEnergy will manage the energy transactions for this site, ensuring efficient integration with the broader energy market.
Meanwhile, the Lauderwater project features a 39-megawatt BESS with 55 MWh of storage, carefully designed to minimize environmental impact across its 0.6-acre footprint. This demonstrates a growing commitment within the industry to responsible development alongside technological advancement. The projects utilize battery technology supplied by NHOA Energy, with ESM Power handling infrastructure and system integration, and NHOA Energy providing ongoing maintenance through long-term service agreements.
A Collaborative Effort Driving the Clean Energy Revolution
“The operation of the Laudwater and Basilden projects has enriched our portfolio of operations in the UK,” stated Daniel Burrows, CEO of Eku Energy. “Through innovative long-term contracts, we are creating more opportunities for supporting our customers. We will continue to advance our mission to accelerate the clean energy transformation by providing safe and reliable battery storage assets.”
Lucie Kanius-Dujardin, Global Managing Director of NHOA Energy, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of partnership: “These projects demonstrate the critical role of efficient partnerships in energy transformation, and the synchronous delivery of the two power plants requires close collaboration.”
Beyond Today: Expanding Energy Storage Capacity in the UK
This announcement isn’t a standalone event. Eku Energy has secured financing from NatWest Bank and Sumitomo Mitsui Bank to build a further 99MW/198MWh battery storage system in Ocker Hill, West Midlands. Expected to be operational by the end of 2026, this will become the company’s fourth energy storage project in the UK, solidifying its position as a key player in the nation’s energy landscape.
Why is energy storage so vital? Historically, renewable energy sources like solar and wind have been hampered by their intermittent nature. Battery storage acts as a buffer, capturing excess energy generated during peak production and releasing it when demand is high or renewable sources are unavailable. This not only enhances grid stability but also reduces reliance on fossil fuels, contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable energy system. The UK, with its ambitious net-zero targets, is increasingly reliant on solutions like these to meet its climate goals.
The rise of battery storage is also creating new economic opportunities, from manufacturing and installation to operation and maintenance. As the technology matures and costs continue to fall, we can expect to see even more widespread adoption, transforming the way we generate, distribute, and consume energy.
Stay tuned to Archyde.com for the latest updates on the UK’s energy transition and the innovative technologies shaping our future. Explore our Energy section for in-depth analysis and breaking news on renewable energy, grid modernization, and sustainable technologies.