Month: January 2024

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News

Surpassing Expectations: Renewables Power 113% of Scotland’s Energy Demand!

Norbida UK News
Setting New Records: Achieving the Highest Renewable Energy Volume Ever Recorded! [Image: Scottish Power]

 

Scotland’s Renewable Triumph: Powering Past 100% in a Green Energy Milestone

In a spectacular display of green energy prowess, Scotland has shattered records and expectations alike. The latest statistics from the Scottish Government reveal a phenomenal achievement: in 2022, renewable energy technologies generated an astonishing 113% of Scotland’s overall electricity consumption. This isn’t just a number; it’s the highest figure ever recorded in Scotland’s renewable energy history, representing a massive 26% increase from the previous year.

Claire Mack, Chief Executive of Scottish Renewables, couldn’t hide her excitement: “These record-breaking figures are a major milestone on Scotland’s journey to net-zero, clearly demonstrating the enormous potential of our world-class renewable energy resources.” And she’s right. Scotland’s commitment to clean energy is not just about reducing carbon footprints; it’s a robust engine driving economic growth. The renewable energy industry and its supply chain are already supporting over 42,000 jobs and contributing an impressive £10.1 billion in economic output.

But Mack reminds us, the journey doesn’t end here. With electricity demand predicted to soar, Scotland is focused on deploying renewable energy projects at scale and at speed. This is more than an environmental crusade; it’s a strategic move to provide clean, affordable energy for homes and businesses, while supporting the nation’s broader goals for decarbonizing heat and transport.

The spotlight is now on maximizing capacity in the upcoming Contracts for Difference Allocation Round 6. This will be a crucial step in fostering the infrastructure and investment necessary for a robust, home-grown clean energy system.

Echoing this sentiment, Scottish Energy Secretary Neil Gray adds, “This is a significant milestone in Scotland’s journey to Net Zero. For the first time, Scotland has produced more renewable electricity than it consumed, demonstrating the enormous potential of Scotland’s green economy.”

This is more than an achievement; it’s a beacon of hope and a testament to Scotland’s relentless pursuit of a sustainable future. It’s a story of a nation boldly stepping into a greener, cleaner tomorrow.

Key Takeaways

  • Historic Achievement: Scotland’s renewable energy output surpassing its own electricity consumption sets a new national record.
  • Economic Impact: The renewable sector’s contribution to job creation and economic growth in Scotland is significant.
  • Future Focus: Continued expansion and investment in renewable energy are vital for Scotland’s net-zero ambitions and economic prosperity.

 

 

 

 

 

Credits: [Image: Scottish Power]

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News

Green Energy Milestone: Lhyfe And EDPR Ink Groundbreaking Solar PPA Deal In Germany!

Norbida UIK News
Igniting a Green Revolution: The 55MW PV Farm Set to Power Pioneering Hydrogen Plants in Baden-Württemberg and Lower Saxony! [Image: EDPR]

 

Powering a Green Future: Lhyfe and EDPR’s Bold Leap into Sustainable Energy in Germany

In an exhilarating move towards a cleaner, greener future, Lhyfe and EDP Renewables (EDPR) have struck a game-changing deal. They’ve inked a renewable electricity supply contract, where Lhyfe will be harnessing the power from EDPR’s formidable 55MW solar farm in Germany. This isn’t just any solar farm; it’s a beacon of sustainability, developed through the expertise of Kronos Solar EDPR, and is set to light up the grid in 2025.

This Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) is a critical piece of the industrial agreement puzzle between these two renewable energy titans. The deal ensures that EDPR will be the powerhouse behind Lhyfe’s innovative hydrogen generation projects. For Lhyfe, this is a strategic move, securing a steady flow of renewable energy for its upcoming green hydrogen production sites in Germany.

But wait, there’s more! In the eco-friendly regions of Baden-Wurttemberg and Lower Saxony, Lhyfe is constructing two production units. These aren’t just any units; they represent a colossal combined production capacity of 8 tonnes of green, renewable hydrogen per day. This hydrogen isn’t just for show – it’s set to fuel local mobility and industrial processes, marking a significant stride in sustainable development.

Lhyfe and EDPR aren’t stopping there. They’re on a mission to identify co-development opportunities for projects that target some of the most challenging sectors to decarbonize – sectors where electrification alone doesn’t cut it.

This collaboration is more than a contract; it’s a commitment to a sustainable, electrified future. It’s about powering tomorrow’s world with the clean energy of today, and Lhyfe and EDPR are leading the charge.

Key Points to Spark Conversations

  • Sustainable Partnership: Lhyfe and EDPR are teaming up to transform renewable energy into green hydrogen.
  • Innovative Approach: They’re targeting sectors where traditional electrification isn’t possible, pushing the boundaries of green technology.
  • Local Impact: The green hydrogen produced will energize local mobility and industrial processes, showing the world how sustainability can be embedded in our daily lives.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Credits: [Image: EDPR]

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News

Sun-Powered Surge: EU’s Solar Platform Secures A Whopping €213 Million In Financing!

Norbida UK News
Powering the Future: Alantra and Solarig Ignite €213M Funding for a Monumental 1.9GW Solar Pipeline in Southern Europe! [Image: Alantra and Solarig]

 

Energizing the Future: Alantra and Solarig’s €213M Solar Revolution

In a groundbreaking move, Alantra Solar, the dynamic duo of Alantra and Solarig, is revolutionizing the solar energy landscape. They’ve recently hit a major milestone in their ambitious 1900MW solar photovoltaic investment venture, securing a staggering €213 million in debt financing. This monumental funding is set to kickstart the construction of the first 306MW of their solar project.

The partnership struck gold with a financing agreement led by Rabobank, acting as the Bookrunner and Coordinator. This alliance includes a powerhouse of financial institutions: ABN AMRO, BNP Paribas, Commerzbank, and Cooperatieve Rabobank, all coming together to fuel this solar dream.

But there’s more! In just one year, Solarig has not only completed but also connected the first 16MW solar plant to the grid. Located in the sun-kissed southern Spain, in Zafra (Badajoz), this project is separately financed by Caja Rural de Soria.

This venture is more than just panels and wires; it’s a part of one of Europe’s largest solar development platforms. N-Sun Energy, supported by Swiss titan Reichmuth Infrastructure and French maestro Amundi Energy Transition, plans to acquire an impressive portfolio of 50 solar plants sprawled across Italy and Spain, all expertly developed by Solarig.

And there’s a twist: a significant chunk of these plants will boast advanced battery storage, marking a leap in sustainable energy storage.

By the end of 2025, the project aims to have all plants ready-to-build, and as we speak, the vehicle has already snapped up 597MW from Solarig.

With a total investment of a jaw-dropping €1.7 billion, comprising €700 million in equity and €1 billion in debt, this platform is not just a project; it’s a revolution.

Javier Mellado, the Managing Partner of Alantra Solar, encapsulates the essence of this journey: “Within just one year, our progress is evident: securing the financing for the first batch of plants marks a pivotal milestone for our project, as does the successful completion of the first photovoltaic plant, actively supplying electricity. This rapid pace propels our commitment to expedite the energy transition, while offering investors seeking solar energy opportunities a robust risk-return solution.”

#SolarPower #RenewableEnergy #SustainableInvestment #GreenTech #CleanEnergyFuture #EcoInnovation #EnergyTransition #SolarPV #InfrastructureInvestment #SustainableDevelopment

 

 

 

 

 

Credits: [Image: Alantra and Solarig]

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News

Enviromena Gears Up For A Solar Revolution: Prepping A Massive 400MW Pipeline In The UK!

Norbida UK News
From Dorset to Durham: Enviromena Sets the Stage for a Green Future, Preparing to Unveil Solar Projects in the Coming Six Months! [Image: Enviromena]

 

Enviromena Ignites the Solar Spark in the UK: A 400MW Green Energy Odyssey

In an electrifying move, Enviromena is set to revolutionize the UK’s solar landscape. The Reading-based pioneer in clean energy is gearing up to propel its colossal 400MW solar pipeline through the planning stages within the next six months. This bold step is part of Enviromena’s grand vision to amplify its UK portfolio to a staggering 500MW by 2025.

The energy landscape is about to get a lot brighter! These 400MW projects, stretching from the scenic Dorset to the historic Durham, are merely the tip of the iceberg in Enviromena’s expanding portfolio, which boasts over 1.5GW of solar projects. Spearheaded by their in-house development team, this initiative marks a significant stride in sustainable energy development.

But there’s more! Beyond these 400MW marvels awaiting planning, Enviromena is already nurturing 110MW of solar projects, anticipated to emerge from the planning phase by March 2024. This is clean energy in action, folks!

Mark Harding, the European Development Director at Enviromena, shares his excitement: “This is not just a milestone, it’s a leap into the future of clean energy. Our projects are crafted with care, ensuring they harmonize with the landscape and respect local wildlife.”

Enviromena isn’t just about building solar farms; it’s about building relationships. The coming months are slated for deep community engagement, taking valuable local insights into account before each planning submission. This inclusive approach has already seen several sites receive unanimous planning nods from local councils, reflecting the growing demand for sustainable energy solutions, especially in times of fluctuating fuel prices.

What does this mean for the UK? A surge in clean energy availability! With over 400MW of ground-mounted solar projects on the horizon, Enviromena is set to lower carbon emissions significantly and brighten up tens of thousands of homes with clean, renewable energy.

But wait, there’s recent progress too! Enviromena’s construction of Horsey Levels in Somerset and Kiln Fields in Hampshire, totaling 42MW, is nearing the finish line, with energization expected in early 2024. Following the success of Three Maids Hill in Winchester and Bryngolwg in Wales, Enviromena is not just talking about a green future; they are building it, one solar panel at a time.

Stay tuned as Enviromena lights up the UK with its solar energy crusade!

#GreenEnergy #SolarPower #SustainableFuture #Enviromena #UKSolarRevolution #CleanEnergyGoals #EcoFriendlyLiving #RenewableEnergy #ClimateAction #SolarEnergyUK

 

 

 

 

 

Credits: [Image: Enviromena]

Categories
News

Swiss Solar Pioneer Contemplates A Strategic Shift: Considering Closure Of German Factory

Norbida UK News
Adapting to Global Market Dynamics: Meyer Burger Expands US Manufacturing in Response to Europe's Market Distortion Challenges [Image: Meyer Burger]

 

Meyer Burger’s Strategic Pivot: Navigating Challenges in Europe, Eyeing Expansion in the US

In a bold and strategic move, Swiss solar photovoltaic module producer Meyer Burger Technology is facing a pivotal moment. The company has disclosed potential plans to close its factory in Freiberg, Germany, a decision that could mark a significant shift in the solar industry landscape. With the potential shutdown looming as early as April 2024, about 500 employees are poised at a crossroads.

This critical decision hinges on the second half of February 2024. Meyer Burger is awaiting concrete measures to level the playing field in Europe, like a resilience-reward scheme. Absent these measures, the company faces a stark reality. The European market distortion has already left its mark: Meyer Burger anticipates a total sales figure of approximately CHF135m (€143m) for the fiscal year 2023, with an EBITDA loss of at least CHF126m and a year-end cash position of around CHF150m.

As Meyer Burger prepares to enter discussions with all stakeholders regarding this decisive closure, it’s not just about shutting doors. “In the event of a closure, necessary positions in engineering, technology, supply chain management, and certain other critical functions at the manufacturing site in Freiberg would be offered the option of transferring their contracts to other Meyer Burger entities,” the company assures.

Meanwhile, the Thalheim solar cell production facility in Germany will continue its vital role, supporting the ramp-up of US solar module manufacturing in Goodyear. This strategic shift underscores Meyer Burger’s resilience and adaptability in the face of market challenges.

The potential closure of the Freiberg factory is a part of Meyer Burger’s broader strategy to minimize losses in Europe and pivot towards profitable growth in the US. The company’s statement reflects a clear-eyed assessment of the current market: “With a deteriorating market environment in Europe, continuing with full-scale European solar manufacturing is not sustainable for the time being.”

In parallel to these changes, Meyer Burger is exploring strategic partnerships to accelerate the commercialization of its technology. These collaborations aim to foster faster growth with reduced capital requirements while strengthening the local US supply chain.

Gunter Erfurt, Meyer Burger’s CEO, shares a forward-looking vision: “In the US, we can take full advantage of our leading technology position, resulting in substantial interest by partners and supported by favorable industry policies. Given 5.4GW of order book under offtake agreements and a potential to generate EBITDA at roughly CHF250m in 2026, we are able to grow a profitable business, providing a positive outlook for our shareholders. The expansion of the US business is currently proceeding as planned with the ramp-up of our solar module production site in Goodyear, expected to start in the second quarter of 2024.”

Key Insights:

  • Meyer Burger is at a crossroads with potential closure plans in Germany due to market challenges in Europe.
  • The company is shifting focus to the US, where favorable policies and technology leadership offer a promising future.
  • Strategic partnerships and US expansion are key to Meyer Burger’s plan for profitable growth.

Join the Dialogue:

  • What are your thoughts on Meyer Burger’s strategic shift?
  • How do you see the future of solar manufacturing balancing between Europe and the US?

#SolarEnergy #MeyerBurger #RenewableEnergy #GreenTech #SustainableBusiness #USExpansion

 

 

 

 

 

 

Credits: [Image: Meyer Burger]

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News

Orsted And Bloomberg Ignite The Future: Sealing An 80MW Solar Power Deal In The US

Norbida UK News
From the Heart of Texas: The 471MW Mockingbird Solar Center Set to Power Up, Fueling Orsted and Bloomberg's 80MW Solar Vision [Image: Orsted]

 

Illuminating a Greener Future: Bloomberg and Orsted’s Groundbreaking 80MW Solar PPA in Texas

In a landmark move, Bloomberg has joined forces with Orsted to sign a momentous US solar power purchase agreement for 80MW. This visionary partnership is set to be fueled by the Mockingbird Solar Center, a colossal 471MW project currently taking shape near Paris, Texas. This initiative isn’t just about power generation; it’s about setting a precedent in the renewable energy landscape.

The Mockingbird Solar Center is Orsted’s largest solar undertaking in the US to date. But what sets it apart is its dual mission: generating renewable energy while championing environmental conservation. This project is Orsted’s first to intertwine energy production with the protection of native tallgrass prairie, a significant ecological step.

Bloomberg, alongside other corporate powerhouses like Covestro and Royal DSM, is one of four corporate customers committed to purchasing power from the Mockingbird Solar Center. This collaboration has catapulted the project to a fully contracted status for its entire 471MW capacity.

Rewinding to 2016, Bloomberg took a decisive step by joining the RE100 initiative. This global commitment by businesses to source 100% of their electricity from renewable energy has been a driving force behind Bloomberg’s sustainable vision. By 2022, Bloomberg had already made impressive strides, securing 192,533 MWh of renewable energy from 11 projects, covering over half of its global electricity needs.

With the Mockingbird Solar Center, Bloomberg is on track to cover 100% of its US electricity consumption and 80% of its global electricity needs through renewable sources. “We look forward to partnering with Orsted on the purchase of renewable energy to progress our RE100 target while also meaningfully contributing to conservation efforts,” said Dave Wildman, Global Head of Facilities, Sustainability Ops, and MEP Infrastructure at Bloomberg.

One remarkable aspect of the Mockingbird Solar Center is its collaboration with The Nature Conservancy (TNC). This partnership aims to preserve nearly 1000 acres of rare, native tallgrass prairie adjacent to the project. Orsted’s commitment extends beyond energy, as they plan to donate a significant portion of the Smiley-Woodfin National Prairie Grassland to TNC upon the project’s completion.

The Mockingbird Solar Center is not just a symbol of progress but also a beacon of economic growth, creating 500 jobs during peak construction and projected to inject $215m into the local economy over its lifespan.

This pioneering project is a testament to Orsted’s growing presence in Texas, adding to its portfolio of 12 wind, solar, and storage projects, symbolizing a staggering $3bn investment in the Lone Star State.

Key Highlights:

  • Bloomberg and Orsted’s 80MW solar PPA is powering up the future of renewable energy.
  • The Mockingbird Solar Center merges energy production with environmental conservation.
  • This project contributes significantly to Bloomberg’s commitment to 100% renewable energy usage in the US.

Join the Discussion:

  • Share your thoughts on this groundbreaking renewable energy initiative.
  • How do you think such projects can shape the future of sustainable energy and conservation?

#RenewableEnergy #SustainableFuture #SolarPower #Conservation #GreenTech #Bloomberg #Orsted

 

 

 

 

 

 

Credits: [Image: Orsted]

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News

ORIT Makes A Strategic Retreat: Withdrawing From The Spanish Solar Market Purchase

Norbida UK News
Rewinding to 2020: A Glimpse into ORIT's Ambitious Leap into the Spanish Solar Portfolio – A Bold Move That Shaped Their Journey [Image: Octopus Energy]

 

Navigating the Energy Market with Finesse: ORIT’s Strategic Exit from Spanish Solar Venture

In a stunning pivot, Octopus Renewables Infrastructure Trust (ORIT) has made a calculated move to terminate its option to acquire a substantial 175MW of ready-to-build solar projects in Spain. This decision marks a significant shift in strategy for ORIT, a name synonymous with forward-thinking in the renewable energy sector.

Back in 2020, amidst a global surge in renewable energy interest, ORIT boldly entered into a conditional acquisition agreement for these solar sites. Fast forward to today, after a thorough reassessment, ORIT has chosen a different path. Weighing the projects on a risk-adjusted basis and aligning with the company’s savvy approach to capital allocation, ORIT found exiting the option more beneficial than pursuing construction.

Here’s the kicker: ORIT isn’t just walking away. They’ve managed to secure a financial win in this strategic withdrawal. The company has not only been refunded its initial deposit but also negotiated a termination payment from the vendor. The numbers speak volumes – a net gain of approximately £3m over the €2m initial deposit. This is a clear win, especially considering it’s about £1.5m over the £3.2m holding valuation of the option as of the third quarter of 2023. This savvy move translates to a positive NAV impact of around +0.3 pence per Ordinary Share, compared with the valuation as of 30 September 2023.

Phil Austin, Chairman of Octopus Renewables Infrastructure Trust, encapsulates the essence of this decision: “Exiting this option demonstrates ORIT’s ability to remain flexible as market conditions change and reflects our disciplined approach to capital allocation, allowing us to capitalise on opportunities to enhance value for shareholders when the right deals arise.”

This strategic decision by ORIT underscores the dynamic nature of the renewable energy market and the importance of adaptability and financial prudence in capitalizing on opportunities. It’s a testament to ORIT’s commitment to not just partaking in the renewable energy revolution, but leading it with strategic foresight and financial acumen.

Key Takeaways:
– ORIT’s decision reflects adaptability and a disciplined approach to capital allocation.
– The move resulted in a net gain of approximately £3m, showcasing ORIT’s financial savvy.
– This strategic exit highlights the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of the renewable energy market.

Join the Conversation:
– Share your thoughts on ORIT’s strategic decision.
– How do you see the future of renewable energy investments shaping up?

#RenewableEnergy #StrategicInvesting #ORIT #SolarPower #SustainableFinance #GreenEnergy

 

 

 

 

 

Credits: [Image: Octopus Energy]

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News

EDF Invites Your Voice: Share Your Insights On Our Trailblazing English Solar Scheme!

Norbida UK News
Your Opinion Matters: Join the Conversation on Cornwall's 47.5MW Trelion PV Project - Public Consultation Opens 31 January to 23 February. Be a Part of Shaping Solar Energy's Future! [Image: EDF]

 

EDF Renewables UK Calls on Cornwall Community to Shape the Future of Solar Energy with the Trelion Project

In a move that underscores community involvement in renewable energy, EDF Renewables UK is reaching out to the people of Cornwall, south-west England, for their insights on the proposed Trelion solar farm. This project, poised to generate 47.5MW of green energy, is not just about harnessing the power of the sun; it’s about integrating the voices of the local community into the fabric of sustainable development.

Strategically located to the north of Grampound Road and west of St Stephen, the Trelion project is a beacon of future energy potential. EDF Renewables UK is opening its doors for public consultation from Wednesday, 31 January to Friday, 23 February. This period is a golden opportunity for local residents to express their views, share feedback, and contribute to the planning process ahead of the submission to Cornwall Council later this year.

Mark your calendars! Two in-person consultation events are scheduled at St Stephen Community Centre on Monday, 5 February, and Tuesday, 6 February. These events are a unique chance to meet the project team, delve into detailed information, raise questions, and be part of a collaborative journey towards a greener future. Everyone is welcome to attend and be a part of this exciting initiative.

EDF Renewables UK isn’t just focusing on solar energy generation. The company is dedicated to ensuring the Trelion Solar Farm fosters local benefits. Picture this: a fund of £19,000 annually to support community projects for the 40-year lifespan of the solar array. This initiative exemplifies a commitment to not just environmental sustainability but also to local prosperity.

The plan involves more than just solar panels. EDF Renewables UK is committed to maintaining the natural beauty of the area, with efforts to preserve existing trees and hedges. Additionally, the project will enhance biodiversity through the creation of new wildflower meadows, hedgerows, and trees.

A grid connection for the project is already secured, backed by extensive ecological and feasibility studies, ensuring that the Trelion Solar Farm is not just a concept but a well-prepared blueprint ready to contribute to the UK’s climate change targets and the transition to a green energy future.

Grant Folley, Head of Origination and Planning at EDF Renewables UK, shares his enthusiasm: “This is a great site for a solar farm, with plenty of sun and an agreed grid connection, meaning that the project is well prepared to contribute to UK climate change targets and the transition to a green energy future. We are looking forward to sharing more detailed information about Trelion Solar Farm with the local community and listening to feedback about what else we can do to create a net-zero future where clean energy powers our lives.”

Key Takeaways:

  • EDF Renewables UK invites community feedback on the Trelion Solar Farm project.
  • The public consultation period offers a platform for community engagement and shaping the project.
  • The Trelion project is a holistic approach to renewable energy, combining solar power generation with biodiversity enhancement and community benefits.

Join the Discussion:

  • Share your thoughts and suggestions on the Trelion Solar Farm project.
  • How can community engagement shape the future of renewable energy projects?

#SolarEnergy #CommunityPower #TrelionProject #RenewableCornwall #GreenFuture#EDFRenewablesUK

 

 

 

 

 

Credits: [Image: EDF]

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News

Atlantic Green Energizes The Future: Unveiling The UK’s First Revolutionary Battery Project!

Norbida UK News
Charging Ahead: Buxton's 30MW Powerhouse Set to Electrify the UK in Early 2024! [Image: Atlantic Green]

 

Atlantic Green Ignites a Sustainable Revolution with Buxton’s 30MW Battery Energy Storage System

In an electrifying leap towards a greener future, Atlantic Green has triumphantly announced the mechanical completion of its pioneering project – the 30MW Buxton battery energy storage system (BESS) in England. This groundbreaking development is not just a power project; it’s a beacon of hope in the battle against the climate crisis.

A Powerhouse for Change: The Buxton BESS Project

With a robust 60MWh connection distribution, the Buxton BESS stands as a titan in Derbyshire, ready to wage war against carbon emissions. Atlantic Green’s commitment to propel Derbyshire towards a net-zero future is not just admirable; it’s transformative. This project is a critical step in reducing the county’s carbon footprint, making a tangible difference in the global fight against climate change.

On the Horizon: A Brighter, Greener Future

As construction wraps up, the anticipation for the Buxton BESS’s energisation in early 2024 is palpable. But this isn’t just about one project. Atlantic Green’s vision extends far beyond. With a 30-year lease secured, this BESS is the trailblazer in a series of ambitious projects, totalling over 1GWh, including the colossal 600MWh Cellarhead battery and the innovative 270MWh Project T.

The Force Behind the Revolution: Atlantic Green

Atlantic Green, a dynamic joint venture between Nofar Energy and Interland, is at the forefront of developing UK’s battery energy storage. Their mission? To revolutionize the way we think about and use energy.

Nick Bradford, the managing director of Atlantic Green, expresses his elation: “We are delighted to announce mechanical completion for our Buxton BESS Project. This isn’t just a project; it’s a milestone towards improving grid stability and setting the stage for a sustainable energy future.”

A Commitment to a Sustainable Tomorrow

The Buxton BESS Project is more than just a technological marvel; it’s a commitment. A commitment to improving grid stability, to fostering a greener world, and most importantly, to supporting the UK in achieving its net-zero targets. Atlantic Green isn’t just contributing to Derbyshire’s green efforts; they are reshaping the landscape of energy security for generations to come.

Join us in celebrating this monumental achievement and stay tuned as we charge towards a cleaner, more sustainable future.

#AtlanticGreen #BuxtonBESS #CleanEnergy #SustainableFuture #NetZero #GreenRevolution #EnergyStorage #ClimateAction

 

 

 

 

 

Credits: [Image: Atlantic Green]

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Powering Up: England’s Monumental 500MW Battery Energy Storage Project Receives Go-Ahead

Norbida UK News
Exagen's Major Milestone: Green Light for a Groundbreaking 1GWh Storage Facility in Leicestershire [Image: Exagen]

 

Electrifying Leicestershire: Exagen’s Groundbreaking 500MW/1GWh Battery Project Gets Green Signal

               Exciting news from the heart of Leicestershire! Blaby District Council has given the nod to UK developer Exagen for an ambitious grid-scale battery energy storage project. The Normanton Energy Reserve, set to be one of Europe’s largest projects of its kind, is poised to revolutionize the UK’s National Grid. Let’s unpack this mega project. Situated to the northeast of Earl Shilton, this 500MW/1GWh project isn’t just about storing energy; it’s about transforming the landscape of renewable energy in the UK. After extensive public consultations and careful planning, the project promises to enhance local biodiversity by over 25% with new habitats and extensive woodland. Picture this: a battery capable of powering 235,000 homes for two hours, covering 80% of the homes in Leicestershire. This isn’t just any battery; it’s set to be one of the largest Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) in the UK. But there’s more! This £270m site, around ten times larger than most current grid storage batteries, will connect directly to the energy network. Its role? To maintain grid stability amidst the growing demand for electricity.

               Exagen has big plans. They emphasize that by 2050, the UK will need up to 35GW of storage capacity to meet net zero targets. The Normanton Energy Reserve alone will contribute 1.4% to this national goal. It’s not just a project; it’s a vital step towards the UK’s net-zero transition, ensuring safe and sustainable energy for homes and businesses. What’s happening on the ground? About 45% of the 19-acre site will be dedicated to improving biodiversity. There will be new wildflower meadows, spaces for beekeeping, and enhanced green spaces with the expansion of Normanton Millennium Wood. This project aims to boost biodiversity habitat units by over 25%. But Exagen’s commitment doesn’t end there. They plan to establish a community fund for local area improvements, building on their ongoing community engagement like sponsoring Thurlaston Junior Football Club. Once construction begins, £250,000 will be available for local projects and groups, with an additional £50,000 per year during the operational life of the project, totaling around £4m. As construction approaches, Exagen will focus on landscaping works and planting, followed by pre-construction activities. They aim to partner with local businesses, showcasing their commitment to community and local economy. Jeremy Littman, Exagen Development’s CEO, underscores the importance of this project. “For the UK to achieve its 2050 net zero target at the lowest possible cost, increasing electricity storage capacity is crucial,” he states. “Projects like Normanton are vital, and we’re committed to developing them in partnership with local communities.” This isn’t just a storage facility; it’s a beacon of sustainable progress. Exagen is set to embark on a journey to operationalize this project in the spirit of partnership, positioning themselves as a vital and proactive member of the local community. Stay tuned as we witness the unfolding of this monumental project! 🌱🔋🌍 #SustainableEnergy #GreenTech #BatteryStorage #ExagenProject #Leicestershire #RenewableEnergy #NetZero2050 #CommunityEngagement #EcoFriendly #CleanEnergyFuture

 

 

 

 

 

Credits: [Image: Exagen]