Plans to build a 52MW battery energy storage system (BESS) in Oxfordshire have been given the green light.
Cherwell District Council’s planning committee has approved the project, which is being developed at Yarnton by UK solar and battery storage company Renewable Connections.
Once operational, the BESS will enable energy from renewable generation sources to be stored and released when the network requires, helping to maintain grid stability.
The proposed scheme was designed following statutory and local stakeholder engagement. It will be built on approximately 1.5 hectares of land to the east of the A44.
The approval marks Renewable Connections’ 27th project consent since 2021.
Company chief executive Michael Hughes said: “We welcome the decision by Cherwell District Council to approve Yarnton Battery Energy Storage System.
“This project will help to tackle the climate emergency in Oxfordshire by using smart technology to identify when to store or release energy to the grid and meet peak demand.
“This will enable renewable energy to be used even when the conditions for generation are not being met, helping to support a more stable and reliable energy network, and supporting the UK towards a net zero future.”
The Yarnton BESS site in Oxfordshire is enclosed and bound by Woodstock Road to the south, Green Lane to the north and west, and a railway line to the east.
The UK Government estimates that the implementation of battery energy storage systems could save the UK energy system up to £40 billion in operating costs by 2050, helping to reduce individual energy bills.