Statkraft - Fluence's latest BESS project to improve transmission network stability in the UK

Statkraft, Europe's largest generator of renewable energy has selected Fluence Energy UK Ltd. (Fluence), a subsidiary of Fluence Energy Inc, to deliver its first battery-based energy storage project connected directly to the transmission network.

Statkraft and Fluence will deliver the 50MW project as part of the NOA Stability Pathfinder programme. The programme explores new ways of increasing transmission network stability as the synchronous fossil fuel generators that played this role are currently in the process of being phased out in the UK -- with last coal-fired power station scheduled to close by 2024.

The energy storage system will be installed at Neilston Greener Grid Park in Renfrewshire, Scotland, and is expected to support the National Grid Energy System Operator (NGESO) in ensuring system stability as more and more renewable energy sources come online.

"The project will provide an essential service to stabilise the power grid and allow more renewable energy to be transmitted through the network, without relying on coal and gas-fired power stations. This means fewer harmful emissions, and lower bills for consumers, because renewable energy is cheaper," said Lloyd Godwin, Principal Project Manager at Statkraft.

The latest project also marks the third project across the UK and Ireland that will be delivered by Statkraft together with Fluence, including the first ever battery-based energy storage project in the Irish market, also delivered for Statkraft.

"We look forward to delivering a battery-based energy storage system critical to increasing grid stability and enabling the integration of more low-cost renewable generation," said Brian Perusse, Managing Director of Fluence Energy UK Ltd.

Fluence's company portfolio in UK and Ireland markets currently exceeds 1.4 GWh.