Leading independent energy developer Balance Power today announces it has secured planning approval for a 49.5MW/99MWh battery storage project in south-west Leicestershire.
The project, located in Hinckley, will store renewable energy during peak generation and release it back to the grid when demand is high, helping stabilise the grid and power about 25,000 homes. This is vital as the UK moves toward net zero, with renewable energy becoming more significant in the national energy mix.
Rugby Borough Council’s case officer approved the project following Balance Power's thorough community engagement, which resulted in no public objections. Balance Power collaborated with the community, town council, and local district councillors in the local area during a consultation period, addressing concerns and incorporating feedback about the project.
By allowing more renewable energy to be integrated into the grid, the Hinckley project, comprised of 28 battery units, will prevent around 20,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually, comparable to removing 4,300 cars from the road.
The project also features a biodiversity enhancement scheme, offering broader environmental benefits and protecting existing wildlife, aligning with Balance Power’s dedication to providing clean energy that meets community needs while generating positive outcomes for the environment.
The storage facility is expected to be operational by October 2025, though the construction start date is yet to be determined. After its 40-year lifespan, the facility will be dismantled, and the site will be restored to its original state.
Charlotte Vick, Design Lead at Balance Power said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to have secured planning permission for this battery storage facility. It's set to make a considerable impact on Hinckley and the surrounding area, creating local construction and operation jobs and bolstering its energy security and reliability.
What’s more, battery storage is essential for the UK’s transition to net zero. As more intermittent renewable energy comes online, battery storage plays a pivotal role in balancing supply and demand of clean power and therefore decreasing reliance on fossil fuels. We’re really pleased to have been given backing from the Rugby Borough Council and local residents.”
Balance Power has been at the forefront of decentralised energy projects since 2017, collaborating with landowners, communities, and councils in the UK to achieve national decarbonization targets. They have successfully advanced nearly 40 energy projects to planning consent, adding 426MW of capacity to the grid.
With almost 2GW of projects in development, Balance Power continues to expand its nationwide pipeline, pioneering the transformation of the energy landscape.