EDF gets green light for 114MW UK battery

EDF Renewables UK has been given the go-ahead to develop a 114MW battery energy storage system on land north of Hickling Lane, Swainsthorpe, near Norwich in the UK.

As part of the plans, which were approved by South Norfolk Council, EDF Renewables UK said it would also improve biodiversity by “planting trees, new hedgerows and enhancing the existing pond on site”.

National Grid estimates that battery storage capacity in Great Britain will need to increase from 1.6 GW in 2021 to as much as 20 GW by 2030 and 35GW by 2050 to ensure the UK has access to clean, secure and affordable electricity by 2050.

Andrew Elliott, project manager of the Norwich battery project at EDF Renewables UK said: “We are delighted that South Norfolk Council has given the go-ahead for this battery scheme. As more of our lives are powered by electricity – from heating to cars – our energy system is changing, and batteries help to future-proof the grid and cost-effectively integrate more renewable power. Having more of our electricity generated renewably from homegrown sources will lead to lower bills and greater energy security.”

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