Plans to build a battery energy storage system (BESS) in Scotland have been given the green light.
Galileo Empower has been granted permission to construct the 49.9MW facility at Middlerigg Farm in West Lothian.
The project, which was approved by West Lothian Council’s development management committee, is the renewable energy company’s first to be consented in Scotland.
Situated between Bathgate and Armadale, the site is located on land adjacent to the A801, northwest of Bathgate Substation.
The BESS will store surplus electricity in rechargeable batteries when demand is low and release it back into the electricity grid when demand is high, helping to balance the network.
Galileo Empower’s project will include a community benefit fund with a focus on two key priorities – health and education.
The company is also committed to ensuring that local suppliers and contractors are used wherever possible in the construction and operation of the battery storage facility.
Project manager Laura Petrie (pictured) said: “We are delighted to have received unanimous consent for a battery storage facility at Middlerigg, our first consent in Scotland, which followed extensive engagement with local communities.
“Infrastructure such as this has a vital part to play as we move away from polluting fossil fuels to clean, green, renewable energy, playing a critical role in tackling climate change and supporting Scotland to achieve its net-zero target.
“We are confident that this project will bring considerable economic and environmental benefits to West Lothian.
“In addition to a community benefit fund, 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 as we progress the consented project.”