Statera Energy has energised Thurrock Storage, a 300 MW battery energy storage system near London that is reportedly the UK’s largest.
As part of the energisation process, the site is now delivering electricity to the grid and can respond within seconds, providing up to 300 MW for two hours (600 MWh). Statera says that equates to instantaneous power for up to 680,000 homes for two hours.
The battery storage facility is located immediately north of the former Tilbury coal power station, with the project intended to support grid stability and resilience. Statera notes that thanks to the site’s proximity to demand centres, it will enable energy to be dispatched where it is most needed.
Tom Vernon, Statera Energy CEO and Founder, commented, “We are delighted that Thurrock Storage is now energised, following its successful connection to the grid by National Grid Electricity Transmission (NGET). Increasing BESS capacity is essential for supporting the grid when renewable generation, such as solar and wind, is low or changes quickly. It ensures that energy can be stored efficiently and returned to the grid whenever it’s needed.”
The Thurrock battery is co-located with Thurrock Flexible Generation, a 450 MW flexible generation plant designed to provide backup during extended shortfalls in renewable output.
John Twomey, NGET’s Director of Customer and Network Development, concluded, “Battery storage plays a vital role in Britain’s clean energy transition. Connecting Thurrock Storage, the UK’s biggest battery, to our transmission network marks a significant step on that journey.
“Our Tilbury substation once served a coal plant, and with battery connections like this, it’s today helping to power a more sustainable future for the region and the country.”
