Galileo has submitted a planning application for a 50MW battery energy storage system (BESS) project in Scotland to West Lothian Council.
The battery energy storage system (BESS), located between Bathgate and Armadale, will see a community benefit fund of £500,000 (index-linked) offered over the lifetime of the project to local communities of Bathgate and Armadale.
The proposed battery storage facility, with a capacity of up to 49.9MW, is located on land adjacent to the A801, northwest of Bathgate Substation.
The team behind the proposals, led by Galileo’s senior project manager Laura Petrie, are keen that individuals, local groups and organisations are in touch with the project team directly to provide feedback, so a greater understanding of what this funding could be used for can be gained.
Galileo is also committed to ensuring, wherever reasonably possible, local suppliers and contractors are used in all aspects of the construction and operation of the battery storage facility.
The submission of the planning application follows the recent opening of a supplier portal by Galileo, giving businesses the opportunity to formally register their interest in delivering the project.
Petrie said: “As with all our projects, we have made sure to work closely with local communities throughout the planning process and are confident that this project will bring considerable economic and environmental benefits to West Lothian.
“Our community benefit fund, for example, amounts to £500,000, and we are keen to get a greater understanding of that this could be used for. The development will also deliver considerable investment, creating jobs and boosting the skills of our current and future workforce.
“We look forward to continuing to engage with the council and local communities throughout the planning process.”
Chief executive of West Lothian Chamber of Commerce Paul Hunter added: “We are pleased to note Galileo’s commitment to prioritising the use of local suppliers and contractors in all aspects of the battery storage development.
“If the development is approved, we look forward to continuing to work with the company to maximise the opportunities available in the local supply chain.”