Zenobe brings 100-MW battery online in UK

UK-based battery storage company Zenobe on Saturday announced that its 100-MW battery in Capenhurst, Chester, said to be the largest directly connected to the transmission network in Europe, has come online.

The battery is also described as the first in the world with a commercial contract to deliver reactive power services, which are traditionally provided by fossil fuel generators. It is a result of a National Grid Electricity System Operator (NGESO) Pathfinder which was looking for a cost-effective method to address high-voltage issues in the Mersey region.

“With Capenhurst, we’re solving a key issue on the grid in the Merseyside region whilst significantly enhancing the nation’s use of renewable power. This pioneering project enables us to deliver vital grid services without the need for fossil fuels, supporting cities like Liverpool with their zero carbon targets,” commented Zenobe co-founder and director James Basden.

The company estimates that over the first 15 years of operation, the Capenhurst battery will save around GBP 58 million (USD 70.2m/EUR 65.6m) on curtailment costs, the fees paid to curtail wind power in response to network congestion. There will also be cost savings for consumers from the reduced usage of gas plants.

(GBP 1 = USD 1.210/EUR 1.132)

Choose your newsletter by Renewables Now. Join for free!