UK’s Kona Energy has obtained approval from the Scottish government for its 228MW Smeaton battery energy storage system (BESS) project.
Located near Dalkeith in East Lothian, the project will bolster the UK’s renewable energy capabilities and grid stability.
It will integrate renewable energy into the grid by storing excess power and releasing it during periods of high demand.
By storing energy from renewable sources, the facility will help mitigate grid constraints and cut consumer energy costs.
Its strategic location will improve grid resilience and play a pivotal role in the UK’s ambition to achieve a zero-carbon future.
According to the National Grid Electricity System Operator (ESO), constraint costs on the UK grid could rise to as much as £3bn by 2029, primarily due to the need to curtail wind energy production in Scotland.
The Smeaton BESS project will be vital for reducing costs, lowering consumer energy bills and preventing clean energy waste.
With the Torness nuclear power station set to close in 2028, the Smeaton BESS will also be crucial for preserving local network stability.
The scheme is in line with Kona’s collaborative efforts with the ESO and the National Grid to address energy constraints and enhance network reliability.
In collaboration with Zenobe and Eku and Field, Kona Energy has also developed a proposal for the ESO’s Constraints Collaboration Project, showcasing how battery storage can significantly cut public costs related to energy constraints.
Kona Energy, with guidance from Opus Corporate Finance, is seeking investment to advance the Smeaton BESS project to operational status.
Kona Energy founder Andy Willis stated: “This is fantastic news, adding to Kona’s growing portfolio of work. This project represents a significant step forward in decarbonising the UK’s electricity grid while providing tangible and real benefits in terms of cost reduction and energy security.
“We are eager to collaborate with investors and partners to deliver this project on a rapid timescale. Tackling constraint costs is vital in not only bringing down consumer bills and preventing the costly waste of clean generation, but also for retaining public trust in reaching net zero.”
In May 2022, Kona Energy secured planning approval for its 200MW battery storage facility in Heysham, England.
