Technology : Renewables News
Solivus delivers major UK solar installation at Farnborough Airport

Solivus delivers major UK solar installation at Farnborough Airport

Solivus, a leading UK provider of lightweight solar installations for commercial applications, has designed and delivered a £2m solar installation to Farnborough Airport, taking it one step closer to its commitment to reach net zero emissions by 2030. Located in Farnborough, Hampshire, Farnborough Airport is the home of British aviation

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Vantage Delivers Solar Installation at Leicester Build-to-Rent Site as Part of Turn-Key Decarbonisation Solution for CER III Fund

Vantage Delivers Solar Installation at Leicester Build-to-Rent Site as Part of Turn-Key Decarbonisation Solution for CER III Fund

Vantage, a sustainable retrofit and principal contracting business, proudly announces the successful completion of its photovoltaic (PV) installation project at The Arches, a new build-to-rent development in Leicester, for the Catella European Residential Fund III (CER III). The project was delivered on budget and a week ahead of schedule. Commissioned

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Tackling fuel poverty - energy specialist receives national plaudits

Tackling fuel poverty – energy specialist receives national plaudits

A renewable energy installation specialist has received national recognition for its efforts to tackle fuel poverty across the UK. UK Energy Management (UKEM) last week [11 Oct] won the ‘Fuel Poverty and Vulnerable Customer Support of the Year’ award, at the National Energy Efficiency Awards. Taking place at Birmingham’s Hilton

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Fife College Modern Apprentices shine at Earlseat Wind Farm

Fife College Modern Apprentices shine at Earlseat Wind Farm

Fife College Modern Apprentices were given a starring role recently (Friday 30 September) to highlight the College’s Earlseat Wind Farm Scholarship. The Scholarship received £82k this year from Earlseat owners, The Renewables Infrastructure Group (TRIG), to support companies to take on and train Modern Apprentices (MAs). In practice, funds are

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Pacific Green progresses 373.5MWh Sheaf Energy Park

Pacific Green progresses 373.5MWh Sheaf Energy Park

First of 200+ containers installed at strategically significant site of former coal-fired power station Global energy storage company Pacific Green has hit a number of key milestones in the delivery of its 249MW / 373.3MWh Sheaf Energy Park in Kent, England. The large-scale Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), currently under

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Balance Power gains approval for 99MW Iron Acton battery storage project

Balance Power gains approval for 99MW Iron Acton battery storage project

Leading independent energy developer Balance Power today announces planning approval for its 99MW/99MWh battery storage project located in Iron Acton, South Gloucestershire. This project will play a critical role in storing renewable energy during peak production times and supplying it back to the grid when demand is high, helping to

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Latest Issue
Issue 322 : Nov 2024

Commercial : Renewables News

Solivus delivers major UK solar installation at Farnborough Airport

Solivus delivers major UK solar installation at Farnborough Airport

Solivus, a leading UK provider of lightweight solar installations for commercial applications, has designed and delivered a £2m solar installation to Farnborough Airport, taking it one step closer to its commitment to reach net zero emissions by 2030. Located in Farnborough, Hampshire, Farnborough Airport is the home of British aviation and widely recognised as Europe’s leading airport for premium travel connectivity. In its ongoing efforts to be a sustainability showcase for other airports around the world, it has a clear strategy in place to reach net zero by 2030, well ahead of the industry standard.  As part of this, Farnborough Airport sought to reduce electricity and gas usage and invest in onsite renewable production. However, the path to self-generation proved less than straightforward. Foremost, due to operational and environmental restrictions on land use, the installation of ground-mounted solar at scale was not possible making rooftop solar the only option. At the same time, the iconic architectural curves of the airport building were not conducive to fitting traditional rigid solar panels while – in common with 40% of commercial buildings like aircraft hangars, the rooftops were unable to support the associated weight. The solution to overcoming these challenges and installing the desired solar was provided through partnering with lightweight solar technology pioneers, Solivus. Offering a competitive performance without the bulk, Solivus’ lightweight solar solution provides a practical, efficient, and cost-effective option for commercial rooftops, allowing large premises to harness solar energy while minimising structural concerns and installation complexities. Furthermore, Solivus’ lightweight solar solution can be used on a wide variety of roof surfaces, and is typically installed with no penetration of the roof itself and has much lower glare characteristics compared to conventional solar panels. Now complete, the installation, which commenced works in January 2024, has seen over 4,000 lightweight solar panels installed on hangars one and two, the terminal, the control tower, and the Airport’s award-winning 169-room hotel, the Aviator Hampshire.  Constituting one of the largest rooftop solar installations in the region, the works will enable up to 25% of the airport’s annual electricity needs to be met, as well as enabling its growing operational fleet of electric vehicles to be charged using self-generated electricity. With approximately 75% of solar energy generated to be used on-site, the remaining 25% will be sold back to the energy supplier, thus making the financial case for solar even more attractive. In total, the installation will deliver over 1,700 kWp of installed capacity, generating over 1.2 GWh of clean energy every year while taking Farnborough Airport a major leap forward in its bold target of achieving carbon neutrality by 2030. The PV installation is expected to generate over 36 GWh of energy in its lifetime and offset more than 5,000 tonnes of CO2e in that time.  Importantly, the project, which was planned, delivered and executed as a complete solution by Solivus, was meticulously phased to minimise disruption for the busy airport.  Safety was accounted for too. Working closely with the National Air Traffic Services, Solivus’ design was purposefully constructed to minimise any glint and glare. This included a comprehensive feasibility study, testing factors such as generation potential and shading to determine the optimal placement of panels. Farnborough Airport’s ambitions for renewables are expressed by the Group’s CEO, Simon Geere: “In line with our ambition to become a sustainability showcase for airports around the world, we’re proud to have partnered with lightweight solar technology pioneers, Solivus, to install one of the largest rooftop solar projects in the region. The lightweight solar installation is a significant step towards achieving our sustainability objectives, significantly reducing our controllable emissions, as set out in our Net Zero Roadmap, in which we have committed to be Net Zero by 2030 or sooner.” Interestingly, the solar installation aligns with a recent government bill, which encourages the extensive deployment of rooftop solar on domestic industrial and commercial property to make effective use of available surfaces as a priority. Solivus CEO, Jo Parker-Swift says: “Rooftop solar is crucial for decarbonising the built environment, but its application has often been constrained by the structural limitations of many commercial buildings. Put simply, traditional solar panels are too heavy for many rooftops. Our lightweight solar innovation addresses this issue, enabling large-scale, cost-effective solar deployment across nearly all large commercial buildings and sites. “We are proud to have worked with Farnborough Airport to ensure the future supply of renewable energy, supporting the airport’s progressive net zero emissions journey. We encourage other airports to seize the opportunity to benefit from our lightweight solar energy installations and advance their own sustainability initiatives. For further information please visit: https://www.solivus.com/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Vantage Delivers Solar Installation at Leicester Build-to-Rent Site as Part of Turn-Key Decarbonisation Solution for CER III Fund

Vantage Delivers Solar Installation at Leicester Build-to-Rent Site as Part of Turn-Key Decarbonisation Solution for CER III Fund

Vantage, a sustainable retrofit and principal contracting business, proudly announces the successful completion of its photovoltaic (PV) installation project at The Arches, a new build-to-rent development in Leicester, for the Catella European Residential Fund III (CER III). The project was delivered on budget and a week ahead of schedule. Commissioned by CER III and Catella APAM, the site’s asset managers, Vantage began by assessing The Arches’ energy performance baseline and producing a tailored decarbonisation pathway. The report identified the potential for a significant roof-mount PV array, alongside a selection of other energy and carbon reduction projects. Following an extensive feasibility study – which included a structural assessment as well as planning and Distribution Network Operator (DNO) applications – Vantage executed a comprehensive design and build solution, acting as Principal Contractor for the project. Vantage managed all aspects of the project, including in-house procurement, project management, cost management and construction site oversight. The successful installation now allows The Arches to generate 25% of its total electrical load from on- site renewable energy, significantly decreasing reliance on grid energy and bolstering the asset’s energy performance credentials. Marwin Weber, CER III Fund Manager, commented: “We have integrated a climate strategy into our investment strategy aiming to decarb and adapt at the lowest possible cost point. This is another milestone of our pan-European climate strategy.” Adam Fairless, Managing Director of Vantage, added: “The PV installation marks a significant milestone on the asset’s journey to net zero. We’re thrilled to have delivered this project ahead of schedule and within budget, and look forward to continuing to support CER III on future sustainability enhancements.” Chalwe Silwizya, Asset Manager at Catella APAM, stated, “This project underpins the CER III Fund’s commitment to reducing its climate impact and increasing the energy efficiency of its portfolio. This is one of several initiatives being undertaken at The Arches as part of our ESG strategy, to adapt to the changing climate and occupier demands” For enquiries about the Vantage turn-key decarbonization model or if you’re interested in enhancing your assets EPC rating please contact us at info@vantagezero.com. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Residential solar CEO reacts to Labour uncertainty on Future Homes Standard

Residential solar CEO reacts to Labour uncertainty on Future Homes Standard

Mohamed Gaafar, CEO and Co-Founder of GRYD Energy: “The time has come for the new government to take a firm stance on the FHS and commit to making the country’s housing fit for the future. The FHS is a crucial piece of legislation that will raise the environmental standards of new homes and ensure the housing sector’s energy supply is more resilient, affordable and sustainable for all.  “It’s very concerning to see the new Labour government wavering over the strength of legislation proposed about the environmental standards of new homes.  “The previous government delivered so many mixed messages over decarbonisation standards for UK homes. This has caused significant uncertainty for asset owners, landlords and developers and fuelled inaction across the sector.  “The new government’s green growth agenda cannot be realised without an unapologetic commitment to the Future Homes Standard. This will give the property sector the clarity and stability it needs, and deliver a clear message that the future of Britain’s housing will be driven by innovation and no longer plagued by inertia.  “The Future Homes Standard will certainly bring challenges for developers – as new regulatory measures do for any sector – but this is an essential piece of legislation to ensure Britain’s new building stock is futureproofed and primed for a clean, energy efficient future.  “Until now, the government has heavily focussed on the decarbonisation of homes through subsidies for retrofits. This is an important piece of the puzzle, yet with Starmer’s bold ambition to build 1.5 million homes in five years, he must put robust regulatory measures in place to ensure those new homes are built for a net zero future – and won’t have to be retrofitted with the right technology in a matter of years.  “If we don’t build homes today that are futureproofed with low carbon systems, we’ll be retrofitting them in 5-10 years down the line at a much higher cost. Let’s do it once and do it right.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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London Stadium to Become One of the World’s Greenest Venues with New Solar Roof

London Stadium to Become One of the World’s Greenest Venues with New Solar Roof

Construction Begins on £4.35m Solar Membrane at London Stadium Work has commenced on a cutting-edge solar membrane that will transform London Stadium, home to West Ham United, into one of the world’s most eco-friendly sports and entertainment venues. The ambitious £4.35 million project has now received planning approval, with construction set to begin imminently. The solar scheme, first revealed by the London Legacy Development Corporation (LLDC), will see 6,500 square metres of solar panels installed across the roof. The installation is expected to reduce the stadium’s carbon emissions by over 200 tonnes annually, while generating enough energy to power all major events held at the venue. The project has been supported by Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London, who contributed £45,000 towards a feasibility study through the mayor’s Green Finance Fund, which also provided a loan for the solar installation. The initiative was granted planning permission on 24th September 2023 and is expected to be completed by summer 2025. The solar membrane is projected to generate around 850,000 kWh of electricity per year – enough to power 20 football matches, four concerts, two Major League Baseball (MLB) games, and one international athletics event. This renewable energy is estimated to save the stadium up to £350,000 annually in energy costs. Given the stadium’s existing lightweight roof structure, the solar membrane is designed to be lightweight while ensuring maximum energy generation and compliance with fire regulations. Once completed, it will start generating electricity immediately. Mete Coban, London’s Deputy Mayor for Environment and Energy, hailed the project as a “game changer”, saying:“These solar panels will transform the London Stadium into one of the world’s greenest venues, reducing its energy consumption and running costs. The mayor’s Green Finance Fund is a fantastic opportunity for public sector bodies to lower their carbon footprint, and we encourage more organisations to take advantage of this funding.” Graham Gilmore, Chief Executive of LS185, the stadium’s operator, echoed the sentiment:“We are committed to becoming one of the most sustainable live event venues globally. This significant investment will not only cut our energy costs but, more importantly, reduce our carbon footprint. We’re proud to lead the way in tackling climate change, powering our concerts and events with energy generated right here on site.” With the solar membrane set to be completed in 2025, London Stadium is set to be a pioneer in the movement towards greener, more sustainable large-scale venues, paving the way for future innovations across the global sports and entertainment industry. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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SEGRO installs its largest PV array in London at SEGRO Logistics Centre Faggs Road

SEGRO installs its largest PV array in London at SEGRO Logistics Centre Faggs Road

SEGRO has completed its largest solar panel installation in London at SEGRO Logistics Centre Faggs Road, which is located a few minutes from Heathrow Airport The project is in partnership with its customer, GEODIS, a leading worldwide provider of customised transportation, warehousing, global logistics and supply chain solutions. SEGRO has been working closely with GEODIS, which occupies a 96,562 sq ft unit in Hounslow, to install 1,750 PV panels on its roof, with installed capacity 700 kWp. The energy produced by this solar array is equivalent to powering 75 homes and saves as much carbon annually as planting 5,445 trees.  The project aligns with the Responsible SEGRO commitment to Champion low-carbon growth and requirements of the Heathrow supply chain, where businesses are expected to demonstrate low-carbon building practices to support the airport’s sustainability goals. As part of the initiative, SEGRO was able to secure a Power Purchase Agreement that enables the customer to benefit from cheaper electricity. Chris Packwood, Managing Director at GEODIS, said: “We are delighted with the evolution of our facility, to now harness the power of the sun. This further strengthens the GEODIS commitment to sustainability, by having confidence in the origin of our power supply and the associated REGO certificates.” Gareth Baker, Director, Western Corridor at SEGRO, said: “It is fantastic to deliver this exciting project, providing both environmental and cost benefits to GEODIS. This project is a prime example of how we can collaborate with our customers to drive sustainable growth. Not only does it significantly reduce carbon emissions by generating renewable energy on-site, but it also helps GEODIS to reduce its operational costs in the long run.” The installation is linked to GEODIS’ recent lease renewal and as part of the agreement, SEGRO installed six electric vehicle charging stations, furthering the sustainability credentials of the development. SEGRO Logistics Centre Faggs Road is located within minutes of Heathrow Airport. As well as being in a prime position with easy access to the A30, the development is well connected with the M25 within 6 miles to the west, giving swift access to the UK’s motorway network. Responsible SEGRO framework A commitment to be a force for societal and environmental good is integral to SEGRO’s purpose and strategy. Its Responsible SEGRO framework focuses on three long-term priorities where the company believes it can make the greatest impact: Championing Low-Carbon Growth, Investing in Local Communities and Environments and Nurturing Talent.  Striving for the highest standards of innovation, sustainable business practices and enabling economic and societal prosperity underpins SEGRO’s ambition to be the best property company. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Tackling fuel poverty - energy specialist receives national plaudits

Tackling fuel poverty – energy specialist receives national plaudits

A renewable energy installation specialist has received national recognition for its efforts to tackle fuel poverty across the UK. UK Energy Management (UKEM) last week [11 Oct] won the ‘Fuel Poverty and Vulnerable Customer Support of the Year’ award, at the National Energy Efficiency Awards. Taking place at Birmingham’s Hilton Metropole, the glittering award ceremony brought businesses and experts from across the energy efficiency industry together under one roof. Comedian Jason Manford hosted the event and presented UKEM directors Steven Copeland and Chris Snaith with the award, which recognised ‘those organisations going the extra mile to help people in difficult circumstances.’ UKEM beat eight other finalists to the award, having helped install energy saving solutions in over 9,000 homes over the past 12 months. Speaking after receiving the accolade, Steven Copeland, UKEM CEO, said: “We are beyond proud to have been presented with this prestigious award. “We have invested heavily in our marketing and advertising efforts over the past couple of years to target those in traditionally hard to reach communities who may be experiencing fuel poverty. We are now seeing those efforts really bear fruit. “Over the past 12 months, we’ve installed energy efficiency solutions in thousands of homes, the vast majority which have been on behalf of people struggling with rising energy prices, so to receive such an award is testament to the fantastic work our team do week-in, week-out, to help those most in-need.” All of UKEM’s installations during the period were delivered via the Government’s Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) and Great British Insulation (GBIS) Schemes, aimed specifically at reducing fuel poverty through the installation of renewable and low-carbon technologies. The solutions installed by UKEM, including heat pumps, solar panels and loft and wall insulation, have a real environmental as well as economic impact, with the firm’s latest impact report concluding that its installations also prevented over 57,000 tonnes of CO2 from escaping into the earth’s atmosphere. “Poorly insulated homes not only come at a huge financial burden to residents, but also at a significant environmental cost to the planet, and the judges reserved special praise for how our solutions are helping to directly address both challenges,” Steven added. “The Government has set a target for around 6.5million fuel-poor homes to be at least band C by 2030 and for as many as possible homes to be band C by 2035, which is why support schemes such as ECO4, which make it more affordable for those struggling to make their homes more energy efficient, are so important. “By breaking down the barriers preventing those most in-need from improving the energy efficiency of their homes, it is helping retrofit the UK’s housing stock at pace, while helping the nation meet its ambitious Net Zero targets. “However, we know there are still millions of households out there who are eligible and very much in-need of such support, so we’d recommend anyone to check their eligibility for funded measures via our website.” For more information on UKEM, visit: https://ukem.co.uk/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Fife College Modern Apprentices shine at Earlseat Wind Farm

Fife College Modern Apprentices shine at Earlseat Wind Farm

Fife College Modern Apprentices were given a starring role recently (Friday 30 September) to highlight the College’s Earlseat Wind Farm Scholarship. The Scholarship received £82k this year from Earlseat owners, The Renewables Infrastructure Group (TRIG), to support companies to take on and train Modern Apprentices (MAs). In practice, funds are given to employers to subsidise wages, making it easier for them to employ Fife College Apprentices. This innovative partnership between Fife College and Earlseat Wind Farm complements the existing work the College does to deliver one of the largest MA college contracts in Scotland. This example of private and public sector partnership benefits local people, local businesses and the local and national economy. Speaking at the site, days after the Prime Minister announced the new publicly funded clean energy company, GB Energy, was to be based in Scotland, Fife College Principal Jim Metcalfe said: “It’s so inspiring to see Fife College Modern Apprentices in action at Earlseat Wind Farm. “The College is dedicated to the skills needed for the future workforce to make the transition to clean energy. We are proud to be helping shape a cleaner, greener future for our economy – and ensuring well-paid, sustainable work for Fife’s communities. “This month, as the third-largest engineering modern apprenticeship provider in the country, we welcomed a record intake of 350 first-year modern apprentices. Working with a large number of employers, including wind farm operators RES at Earlseat, we can provide more opportunities than ever before for these talented apprentices to earn while they learn.” After touring the site and meeting with the Modern Apprentices, Glenrothes and Mid Fife MP Richard Baker said: “It is brilliant for Fife that such an innovative partnership has been developed between Fife College, TRIG and RES, providing opportunities for apprenticeships with local renewables firms. This is a fantastic way to secure community benefit from renewable energy generation in our area, investing in the skilled workforce we need to grow the renewables sector in Fife. “This collaboration between RES and Fife College provides an excellent model for collaborations to boost skills and innovation, and as GB Energy is established in Scotland I hope this will lead to more partnerships to boost renewables in Fife in the future.” Callum Whiteford, Head of Corporate Affairs at RES, who operate Earlseat Wind Farm on behalf of The Renewables Infrastructure Group (TRIG), said: “This excellent training programme, funded by TRIG, has enabled our long-term partnership with Fife College to become a prime example of how the renewables industry can bring wider benefits to the local economy by supporting future careers, and how this can play an integral part in the wider transition to renewables. It is so rewarding to see the programme grow as apprentices are given the opportunity to thrive in such a variety of environments and we look forward to welcoming future intakes here on site at Earlseat.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Government Unveils £22 Billion Boost for Carbon Capture: A Game-Changer for Jobs and Emissions

Government Unveils £22 Billion Boost for Carbon Capture: A Game-Changer for Jobs and Emissions

The UK Government has announced a substantial £22 billion investment in carbon capture and storage projects, aimed at cutting emissions while driving economic growth. This major funding boost is set to support two significant “carbon capture clusters” in Merseyside and Teesside over the next 25 years, creating thousands of jobs and attracting private investment, all while helping the UK meet its climate targets. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, alongside Chancellor Rachel Reeves and Energy Secretary Ed Miliband, highlighted the initiative as a means of “reigniting our industrial heartlands by investing in the industry of the future.” Carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS) technology traps emissions produced by energy generation and industrial processes, such as cement manufacturing, and stores them underground in geological formations like disused oil fields beneath the sea. Experts, including the International Energy Agency (IEA) and the Climate Change Committee, consider CCUS vital to achieving the greenhouse gas reductions needed to combat climate change. The Government’s £22 billion commitment will fund carbon capture initiatives in Teesside and Merseyside, focusing on projects that capture emissions from hydrogen production, gas power plants, and energy-from-waste facilities. This investment is set to generate around 4,000 direct jobs and support up to 50,000 jobs long-term. Additionally, it will help the UK remove 8.5 million tonnes of carbon emissions annually, with the first carbon being stored as early as 2028. These projects are expected to serve as a catalyst for the UK’s first large-scale hydrogen production plant, while also helping the oil and gas industry transition to greener energy sources. The move has been widely welcomed, with David Grier of Verdant Regeneration stating, “This funding provides industry with the confidence to invest in groundbreaking technology that will create jobs, spur growth, and help meet the UK’s climate ambitions.” The initiative is predicted to attract £8 billion in private sector investment. CCUS technology is also key to the development of “blue” hydrogen, which is produced from natural gas with carbon emissions captured and stored. However, environmentalists, including Greenpeace, have raised concerns that blue hydrogen still relies on fossil fuels, potentially locking the UK into what they call “second-rate solutions.” Prime Minister Starmer defended the plan, stating: “For the past 14 years, business has been held back by a dysfunctional government. Today’s announcement provides the certainty needed to deliver jobs, drive growth, and set the UK on a path to a cleaner, greener future.” Energy Secretary Ed Miliband, who first announced plans for carbon capture projects back in 2009, said, “This investment paves the way for a clean energy revolution that will revitalise Britain’s industrial heartlands.” Businesses involved in the carbon capture clusters, including those focused on hydrogen and industrial production, have welcomed the Government’s commitment. Emma Pinchbeck, Chief Executive of Energy UK, described CCUS as “a vital tool in our arsenal to decarbonise industries that cannot yet rely on clean electricity, unlocking significant investment in the process.” However, Greenpeace UK’s policy director, Doug Parr, warned that the £22 billion investment risks extending the lifespan of the oil and gas industry. He called for a greater focus on truly green jobs in sectors like offshore wind or nationwide home insulation programmes to reduce energy bills. The Government’s investment in carbon capture is seen by many as a bold step forward for UK industry and climate action, but its success will depend on balancing economic growth with genuine long-term sustainability. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Pacific Green progresses 373.5MWh Sheaf Energy Park

Pacific Green progresses 373.5MWh Sheaf Energy Park

First of 200+ containers installed at strategically significant site of former coal-fired power station Global energy storage company Pacific Green has hit a number of key milestones in the delivery of its 249MW / 373.3MWh Sheaf Energy Park in Kent, England. The large-scale Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), currently under construction on behalf of asset owner Sosteneo, is located on brownfield land at the site of the former Richborough coal-fired power station.  In conjunction with Pacific Green and Sosteneo’s now operational 100MW / 100MWh Richborough Energy Park, Sheaf will form part of a strategically significant UK clean energy storage and transmission hub which hosts vital connections for the Nemo Link interconnector with Belgium and Thanet Offshore Wind Farm.  Site preparation and groundworks were recently completed on schedule. This work has paved the way for the successful arrival of the first of 200+ equipment containers. Following completion of Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), Sheaf has now taken delivery of 68 containers and installed the first of 34 housing the project’s Power Conversion Systems (PCS) – a crucial component for dynamic coupling of the BESS with the grid. These PCS containers will be followed by 135 liquid cooled, LFP chemistry battery containers, to be shipped from supplier and installed in a just-in-time approach prior to energization with the electrical grid. Activity at the site is being conducted in line with robust safety and risk management protocols. Community engagement and biodiversity are also being prioritized, with key milestones including the appointment of a stakeholder engagement representative and biodiversity actions including removal of contaminated landfill left by the power station, rewilding of 10,000m2 of land, and ultimately achieving biodiversity net gain of no less than 14.91%. Christo Hammes, Pacific Green’s Chief Operating Officer, said:  “Located at a former industrial site and with an excellent grid connection, Sheaf Energy Park will be a strategic asset for the UK’s energy grid – and in many ways is a true symbol of the energy transition. Coupled with Richborough Energy Park, this project embodies Pacific Green’s commitment to UK energy storage and is laying the foundation for future growth.” “We are pleased with progress to date, having hit a number of our key development milestones, and we are committed to maintaining dialogue with our stakeholders and the community as we bring the project through to commissioning next year.” Pacific Green was retained to oversee the construction, operations and maintenance of Sheaf Energy Park following its sale to Sosteneo Fund 1 Holdco S.à.r.l. in December 2023. SSE Energy Supply Limited (SSE) will be responsible for providing optimization services for a 10-year period from the start of commercial operations. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Balance Power gains approval for 99MW Iron Acton battery storage project

Balance Power gains approval for 99MW Iron Acton battery storage project

Leading independent energy developer Balance Power today announces planning approval for its 99MW/99MWh battery storage project located in Iron Acton, South Gloucestershire. This project will play a critical role in storing renewable energy during peak production times and supplying it back to the grid when demand is high, helping to stabilise the grid and power approximately 26,700 homes. The approval from South Gloucestershire was achieved through a delegated decision, following an extensive community consultation process. These discussions led to adjustments in the design, scale, and location of the project, ensuring it meets community expectations and needs. Comprising 19 battery units and spanning 2.3 hectares, the Iron Acton facility will help reduce CO2 emissions by about 18,300 tonnes annually, equivalent to taking 13,000 cars off the road. Currently, the Iron Acton Grid Supply Point (GSP) network has 120MW of solar and wind energy connected, with an additional 750MW of solar connections planned. Balance Power’s Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at this site will be crucial for stabilising network frequency, efficiently storing excess clean energy generated by the renewable energy sources for use during times of peak demand. A 100MW grid connection has been secured at the adjacent Iron Acton Grid Supply Point. While the construction timeline is still being finalised, efforts are underway to advance the energisation date. Initially set for June 2036, ongoing discussions with National Grid aim to bring this date forwards and get the project up and running sooner. Additionally, the project includes a biodiversity enhancement plan, promising a 10% increase in habitat units and a 119% boost in hedgerow units, reflecting Balance Power’s commitment to environmental stewardship. Oliver Pettersen, Connections Manager at Balance Power, expressed enthusiasm: “Securing planning permission for Iron Acton is a significant milestone and is set to make a sizeable impact on local clean energy reliability. With extensive solar development in the Iron Acton area, this project will be pivotal for managing excess power generation and more broadly for balancing out the supply and demand of renewable energy, helping to reduce dependency on fossil fuels. Due to the size and scale of the project, it also marks a big step forward for the UK’s transition to net zero, which depends upon battery storage projects that provide stability for a decarbonised grid. We’re grateful for the support from South Gloucestershire and the community – it’s due to our collective efforts and close collaboration that we’ve reached this brilliant outcome.” Since 2017, Balance Power has been pioneering decentralised energy projects across the UK, collaborating with stakeholders to meet decarbonisation goals. With nearly 2GW of projects in development, Balance Power continues to lead the transformation of the UK’s energy landscape. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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