The development is expected to be operational by late 2025. Image: Balance Power.
Renewable energy developer Balance Power has secured planning approval for an upcoming battery energy storage system (BESS) project in southwest Leicestershire.
The 49.5MW/99MWh BESS project, located in Hinkley, will comprise 28 battery units across the site. Planning permission was granted by Rugby Borough Council, with no public objections submitted during the planning and consultation process.
According to Balance Power, the project is expected to be energised by October 2025, although no construction start date has yet been decided. The facility has an expected lifespan of 40 years, after which the site will be restored to its original state.
Charlotte Vick, design lead at Balance Power, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to have secured planning permission for this battery storage facility. It’s set to make a considerable impact on Hinckley and the surrounding area, creating local construction and operation jobs and bolstering its energy security and reliability.
She added: “What’s more, battery storage is essential for the UK’s transition to net zero. As more intermittent renewable energy comes online, battery storage plays a pivotal role in balancing supply and demand of clean power and therefore decreasing reliance on fossil fuels. We’re really pleased to have been given backing from the Rugby Borough Council and local residents.”
Funding injection facilitates Balance’s growth
This planning win for Balance Power comes after another significant boon for the developer.
In July, it was revealed that Balance Power had secured a £5.1 million debt facility in partnership with investment manager Triple Point, allowing Balance to continue growing its solar and BESS portfolio in the UK. Part of this investment has been allocated to acquiring the Roborough project, a 6MWP solar project with co-located battery storage that is, according to Balance Power, ready to begin construction.
At present, Balance Power has almost 2GW of projects in its pipeline, including a 40MW BESS project in Cheadle, which the developer successfully secured planning permission for in March of this year.
