ABO Energy, the renewable energy development company, has achieved planning approval for two major battery energy storage schemes in Northern Ireland totalling 335 MW/ 670 MWh.

The projects will enhance the flexibility of the transmission grid as it evolves to facilitate greater levels of renewable electricity.

Energy storage allows electricity to be stored during off-peak times then used when required by homes and businesses across Northern Ireland. It is a critical requirement if the region is to meet its renewable electricity consumption target of at least 80% by 2030, as set out in the Climate Change Act.

The Magherafelt Battery Energy Storage Scheme is in the Mid Ulster area of Northern Ireland, and when operational will have a capacity of 195 MW/ 390 MWh. Whilst the Coolkeeragh Battery Energy Storage System is in Foyle Port in the North-West of the region and will provide 140 MW/ 280 MWh of storage.

The proposals form part of ABO Energy’s plans to develop £8 billion worth of projects across the UK in the coming years.

Commenting on the approvals, ABO Energy’s Head of Project Development in Northern Ireland, Patricia McGrath said:

“Northern Ireland has huge potential to reduce its reliance on imported and expensive fossil fuels, but achieving that goal requires modern, green infrastructure.

“These projects are located at strategic points in the transmission network and, when operational, will play a vital role in achieving the region’s renewable electricity target.

“With a combined investment value in excess of £100 million, they will also provide a significant boost to the local economy.

“I would like to thank our specialist teams in Northern Ireland and Germany for their efforts to bring the projects to this point.  

“We are also appreciative of the professional approach taken by both Mid Ulster and Derry City and Strabane District Councils, who clearly recognise the urgent need to support Northern Ireland’s energy transition.”

Dr Julia Badeda, ABO Energy’s General Manager of Hybrid Energy Systems & Storage, added:

“At ABO Energy we like to say we are globally embedded and locally linked, and I believe reaching these milestones for two major projects in Northern Ireland is a perfect example of that in action.

“We are applying our international experience to help countries across the world successfully manage their efforts to decarbonise and secure a more sustainable future.

“Our Northern Ireland team has now secured consent for almost 400 MW of battery energy storage capacity, 50 MW of which is operational, that will support the grid and allow for more renewable generation.

“We look forward to moving ahead with the Coolkeeragh and Magherafelt projects; whilst also progressing other proposals which we hope to see approved in the coming months as we continue our commitment to investing in Northern Ireland’s drive for Net Zero.”