Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP), through its flagship CI IV fund, has taken a major step in its commitment to renewable energy by approving the construction of two additional Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) projects in Scotland. These developments mark a turning point for the UK’s energy infrastructure, with CIP solidifying its position as the nation’s leading investor in battery storage solutions.
Scotland to Host Europe’s Largest Battery Projects
The two projects, Coalburn 2 in South Lanarkshire and Devilla in Fife, are poised to become Europe’s largest battery storage facilities. Each site boasts an impressive 500MW capacity. Once operational, they will collectively deliver a staggering 1.5GW of power and store up to 3GWh of electricity, enough to meet the energy demands of over 4.5 million households for a two-hour period.
These projects, representing a combined investment of £800 million, will expand CIP’s UK BESS construction portfolio to three sites, including the already underway Coalburn 1 project. This milestone further cements CIP’s reputation as a trailblazer in renewable energy and battery storage solutions.
Transforming Energy Security and Sustainability
The Coalburn and Devilla projects are more than just engineering feats; they are critical components of the UK’s transition to a clean power system by 2030. By enhancing energy security, enabling flexibility in the grid, and accelerating the deployment of low-cost renewables, these facilities align perfectly with Scotland’s and the UK’s ambitious net-zero goals.
Scotland’s First Minister, John Swinney, underscored the significance of these projects:
“The construction of Europe’s largest battery systems in South Lanarkshire and Fife is a major step forward for Scotland’s energy transition. These well-placed storage systems will ensure reliable power for homes and businesses, moving us closer to a net-zero future and directly supporting local communities. Scotland remains open for investment in transformative energy technologies.”
A Partnership for Progress
CIP’s success in delivering these groundbreaking projects is built on strong partnerships. The company’s collaboration with Alcemi, a large-scale BESS developer, began in February 2022 and has since flourished. Together, they are creating a robust portfolio of UK-wide battery storage projects aimed at delivering a clean power system by 2030.
Nischal Agarwal, Partner at CIP, highlighted the importance of these initiatives:
“Our investments in Scottish battery energy storage underline our commitment to a vibrant renewable sector in the UK. Projects like Coalburn and Devilla are essential for enhancing energy security, providing grid flexibility, and supporting the deployment of renewable energy faster and more efficiently.”
Key partnerships with technology and engineering providers like e-STORAGE, H&MV Engineering, OCU Group, and Wood Group are ensuring these projects are delivered to the highest standards. e-STORAGE, a subsidiary of Canadian Solar, will supply cutting-edge battery technology for all three projects, delivering 2GWh of storage capacity to the Coalburn 2 and Devilla sites.
A Vote of Confidence in the UK’s Green Economy
Baroness Gustafsson, UK Minister for Investment, praised the £800 million commitment as a testament to the UK’s attractiveness for green investment:
“This landmark investment not only strengthens our mission to become a clean energy superpower but also ensures affordable, reliable renewable energy for millions of people across the UK. Energy is a key sector in our upcoming Industrial Strategy, and investments like this set the stage for long-term growth.”
The Road Ahead
As CIP continues to lead the charge in renewable energy, its transformative projects are laying the groundwork for a sustainable energy future. The Coalburn 2 and Devilla developments represent more than just milestones in battery storage; they embody a vision for an energy-secure, low-carbon world.
With Scotland at the heart of these efforts, and with strong governmental and private sector backing, the UK is well on its way to becoming a global leader in clean energy innovation. CIP’s commitment to building better and building greener signals a brighter, more sustainable future for all.
Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
