Alpiq has inaugurated its first battery energy storage system in Valkeakoski, Finland, according to the company.
The 30MW/36MWh project has been operating since 13 October and is the first battery system in the Nordics to meet Fingrid’s grid-forming requirements, the company said.
Alpiq said flexibility is essential to support renewable integration and described the plant as a major step in its strategy to expand flexible assets.
Lukas Gresnigt, head of international and a member of Alpiq’s executive board, said: “Our investment in BESS is a clear commitment to security of supply and a better climate.”
Gresnigt added: “Our first operational BESS is a major step for Alpiq in line with our strategic focus on flexibility.”
The system was delivered by Merus Power as a turnkey solution, according to Alpiq.
Merus Power chief executive Kari Tuomala said: “This achievement demonstrates our ability to respond to the new demands of the energy transition swiftly and reliably.”
Alpiq said the unit can respond to frequency fluctuations within milliseconds and provide system services and short-term trading.
The company said it is developing further BESS projects including a 125MW/250MWh facility in Haapajärvi due online in mid-2027 and a 100MW/200MWh project in France set for first-quarter 2027.
Alpiq added that it plans additional projects in Switzerland, Germany, the UK and the Nordic region.