Site Status

Early planning

Complete

Public consultation

Nearly complete

Planning application submitted

In progress

Construction

2030

Connection

2033

About

Developed by Peterhead Flexpower Ltd, Peterhead BESS will be a 500-megawatt, two-hour battery energy storage system (BESS). It forms part of the critical infrastructure upgrades required to meet the government's CP30 clean power targets.

Designed by specialist BESS engineers with extensive experience, the site places safety at the heart of its design, while ensuring reliability and minimal disruption to local communities and wildlife.

Over one hectare of land will be designated for biodiversity, and tailored landscaping measures will help minimise disruption to the surrounding environment.

Why do we need a BESS?

Renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power are becoming increasingly important, but they can be intermittent. This means that they do not always produce electricity when it is needed. Energy storage systems like BESS can help to balance supply and demand, ensuring that there is always enough electricity available. The UK is one of the world leaders in wind power generation and therefore a significant investment in supporting infrastructure is required. This is especially prevalent in Scotland where there is a lot of wind generation and transmission around the UK.

Public Consultation

Thank you to everyone who attended the public consultation.

A second in-person public event will take place on Wednesday, 2nd July 2025 at the Small Hall of the Peterhead Rescue Hall, 25 Prince Street, Peterhead, AB42 1QE, between 4 pm and 7 pm. There will be an opportunity to view the application and ask questions of the project team. The information will also be available to view on our dedicated project website from 2nd July 2025:

Please note that any comments made to Peterhead Flexpower are NOT representations to the Energy Consents Unit. All formal representations regarding the application should be made to the Energy Consents Unit.

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FAQs

What is a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS)?
A BESS stores electrical energy and discharges it when needed. It helps balance the electrical grid, providing stability and reliability.
What is the capacity of this BESS site?
The site has a power of 500 megawatts (MW) and a storage capacity of 1,000 megawatt-hours (MWh).
How does the BESS work?
The BESS charges batteries from the grid during periods of low demand or excess renewable generation and discharges energy back to the grid during peak demand or when needed.
Where is the proposed BESS site located?
4.5km south-west of Peterhead, near to the new 400kV substation.
Is the site safe for the community?
Yes, the site is designed and operated with strict safety protocols and regulations in place.
Will there be any noise from the site?
The site is designed to minimise noise impact on the surrounding community. Operational noise will adhere to local regulations such as NR20.
How will the BESS affect the local power grid?
The BESS will enhance the reliability and stability of the local power grid.
How often will the BESS charge and discharge?
The charge and discharge cycles will vary based on grid demand and renewable energy availability, but usually daily cycles.
How many batteries are proposed?
274 initially, but potentially up to 332 depending on the technology selected and accounting for augmentation.
What is the environmental impact of the BESS?
BESS helps reduce reliance on fossil fuels by supporting renewable energy integration, thus reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
How are the batteries disposed of?
Batteries are disposed of and recycled in accordance with environmental regulations and industry best practices.
What measures are in place to prevent environmental incidents?
The site has comprehensive safety and environmental management systems, including monitoring and emergency response plans. The site has been assessed against fire and flood risks and planned accordingly.
How can the community stay informed about the project?
Regular updates will be provided through the website and the public consultations.
Are there any community benefits from the BESS?
Benefits include increased grid reliability, support for renewable energy, and potential economic opportunities. It will support employment and contracting opportunities for the area. It will be aligned with the Aberdeenshire Community Wealth Building Strategy.
What type of batteries are used?
Lithium Ion, exact specifications will be selected at a later stage.
What is the expected lifespan of the batteries?
Approximately ten years before the batteries are recycled.
How is the BESS monitored and controlled?
The BESS has its own sophisticated energy management system, this has automatic safety limits and interlocks to prevent damage or misuse, it is remotely monitored and controlled by a team of engineers and asset optimisers who control the operations.

Get In Touch

If you have any questions or would like to get in touch with us, please contact us using the details below:

Send us an email at [email protected]

Give us a call on +44 1242 500254

Documents

Project Information

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Fire Safety & FAQs

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Site Overview