SSE Renewables partners with Fluence and OCU Energy to deliver their latest 150 MW / 300 MWh project
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The announcement of the 150MW / 300MWh battery energy storage system signifies a strategic investment in the energy sector, particularly in enhancing grid stability and renewable energy integration. The storage system's capacity to store and release power according to demand peaks is a crucial development. This technology not only provides a buffer against the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources but also allows for more efficient use of generated power, reducing the need for traditional peak power plants which are often more expensive and less environmentally friendly.
From an energy market perspective, the deployment of such storage systems can lead to a reduction in energy prices during peak demand times due to the increased supply of stored energy. Moreover, the involvement of Fluence, a seasoned player with a substantial global footprint in energy storage, is indicative of the project's credibility and potential for high performance levels. This collaboration could set a precedent for future energy storage solutions and influence market dynamics by accelerating the adoption of similar technologies.
The transition from a coal-fired power station to a battery energy storage system at the Fiddler's Ferry site reflects a broader policy shift towards renewable energy and decarbonization efforts. Such projects are aligned with the UK's commitment to achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. The environmental impact of repurposing decommissioned fossil fuel sites for renewable energy storage is significant, as it minimizes land use conflicts and leverages existing infrastructure.
The project's potential to support the grid with renewable energy even during periods of low sun or wind is a testament to the role energy storage systems play in enabling a more sustainable energy mix. By improving the reliability of renewable energy, such investments can help mitigate one of the key challenges in the transition to green energy, thus supporting environmental policies aimed at reducing carbon emissions.
The financial implications of SSE Renewables' investment decision in the Fiddler’s Ferry energy storage project are multifaceted. On one hand, the capital expenditure on advanced energy storage technology poses an upfront cost. However, the long-term benefits include potential operational cost savings, as energy storage can optimize the use of generated power and reduce reliance on more costly energy generation during peak times.
Investors and stakeholders should note the project's alignment with the growing trend of renewable energy investments, which are increasingly seen as both financially viable and socially responsible. The involvement of established contractors and suppliers may also provide a level of assurance regarding the project's execution and future performance. As the energy storage market continues to mature, such projects could offer attractive returns on investment, especially considering potential government incentives for clean energy solutions.
The 150MW / 300MWh battery energy storage system will be built on the site of the former SSE-owned coal fired power station
LONDON, March 08, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- SSE Renewables has announced the principal contractor and system supplier for its battery-based energy storage project at Fiddler’s Ferry, Warrington.
Fluence, a global leader in energy storage technology, digital solutions and services, has been selected as the supplier of the battery-based energy storage system to SSE. The project will utilize the Gridstack platform, proven for its industry leading safety and reliability.
Fluence has delivered or contracted more than 8.7 GW of energy storage globally, including over 2 GWh in the UK and Irish markets, making it a highly experienced and trusted partner for SSE Renewables to deliver the Fiddler’s Ferry project. Construction is set to begin at the site in the coming weeks after SSE Renewables took a final investment decision in December 2023.
OCU Energy – which is Stockport-based and currently working with SSE Renewables at their Ferrybridge project – will be the principal contractor at Fiddler’s Ferry.
The 150 MW / 300 MWh battery storage project is situated at the site of the former SSE-owned coal-fired power station at Fiddler’s Ferry. The power station was decommissioned in March 2020, and the final demolition of its cooling towers came at the end of last year.
Once operational, the system will be capable of storing power for release back to the UK National Grid when it is needed the most – helping to manage peaks of energy demand.
This flexibility helps balance energy supply and demand more effectively and maximise the potential of available renewable technology to power the grid – even when the sun is not shining, or the wind is not blowing.
Richard Cave-Bigley, Director of Solar & Battery – SSE Renewables, said: “We are delighted to be working with OCU Energy once again, and to have Fluence as our battery storage system supplier at Fiddler’s Ferry.”
Brian Perusse, Managing Director of Fluence Energy UK, Ltd, said: “Fluence is committed to delivering safe and reliable energy storage systems that advance the energy transition and we are proud to work with SSE Renewables on this highly significant project. Fluence has a track record of operating systems with high performance levels and we are committed to doing the same for Fiddler Ferry.”
Vince Bowler, Managing Director – OCU Energy, said: “We’re proud to be delivering this contract for SSE Renewables and provide valuable energy storage in the northwest. Working on energy transition schemes like this regionally and nationally moves us closer to net zero.”
About Fiddler’s Ferry
Once completed, the 150MW battery storage facility at Fidder’s Ferry will be capable of running for up to two hours at a time. When fully operational, the BESS site will be capable of storing power for release back to the UK National Grid when it is needed the most – helping to manage peaks of energy demand.
This flexibility helps balance energy supply and demand more effectively and maximise the potential of available renewable technology to power the grid.
About SSE Renewables
SSE Renewables is a leading developer and operator of renewable energy, headquartered in the UK and Ireland, with a growing presence internationally.
Part of SSE plc, the UK-listed energy infrastructure company, its strategy is to lead the transition to a net zero future through the world-class development, construction and operation of clean power assets across a diverse mix of renewable technologies.
SSE Renewables is investing around
SSE Renewables has a team of around 1,800 renewable energy professionals based across the UK and Ireland, Continental Europe, and Japan, all committed to delivering the green energy the world needs now and in the future.
About Fluence
Fluence Energy, Inc. (Nasdaq: FLNC) is a global market leader in energy storage products and services, and optimization software for renewables and storage. With a presence in 47 markets globally, Fluence provides an ecosystem of offerings to drive the clean energy transition, including modular, scalable energy storage products, comprehensive service offerings, and AI-enabled SaaS products for managing and optimizing renewables and storage from any provider. The company is transforming the way we power our world by helping customers create more resilient and sustainable electric grids.
For more information, visit our website, or follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. To stay up to date on the latest industry insights, sign up for Fluence's Full Potential Blog.
Media contact:
Fluence
Joanna Spirodek, Senior Regional Marketing Manager, EMEA
Joanna.spirodek@fluenceenergy.com
+49 172 8662155
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