An innovative project from Ørsted, the National Energy System Operator and National Grid, is designed to create a new and better way of operating the electricity network, maximising the output from renewable generators in the UK.
Now they’re beginning to see others following in their footsteps, co-locating renewable energy generation assets and storage systems and sharing grid connections, to make best use of the grid.
Three years of collaboration resulted in Boudica; a pathfinder project designated by the UK Government’s Offshore Transmission Network Review (OTNR). The OTNR aimed to improve coordination between projects to incorporate the increasing amounts of renewable energy coming onto the UK electricity network.
The Boudica project, which is owned by Ørsted ICENI Energy Storage UK Ltd, will install a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) on the same site as Ørsted’s Hornsea 3 Offshore Wind Farm Onshore Substation. The project is expected to come online by the end of 2026. Named for the rebellious East of England tribe headed by Queen Boudica, ICENI will make its own impact by helping to stabilise the UK energy system.
Working through the Pathfinder process to incorporate battery energy storage at this location makes the most of the grid infrastructure normally accessed by just a single offshore wind farm. As well as the combination of technologies enhancing renewable production and grid operations, better use of grid infrastructure reduces the cost to UK electricity consumers by minimising the need for network upgrades and new generation capacity.
Bridgit Hartland-Johnson, Chief Specialist, System Integration at Ørsted, said, “This project is the first of its kind and a blueprint for the future. Never before has there been a battery storage system joined to offshore electricity transmission infrastructure. We’re now seeing more of these projects in the pipeline, demonstrating that it is a best in class solution.”
Energy Minister Michael Shanks said: “The independent National Energy System Operator has confirmed that our clean power by 2030 mission is achievable, but to deliver it we need to increase our ability to store renewable electricity.
“Innovative battery storage projects, like this one from Orsted, will help us to do just that – making the most of our clean, homegrown power and reducing our exposure to volatile fossil fuel markets.
“We’re also taking steps to unleash investment in more long-duration energy storage technologies, that will play a vital role in making Britain a clean energy superpower.”
John Twomey, Director of Customer Connections at National Grid Electricity Transmission, said, “Co-locating assets in this way can help maximise the benefits of new renewable generation planning to connect to the electricity network, ensuring excess wind power can be stored and used when needed. We’re pleased to have helped Orsted develop their pathfinder scheme and are keen to explore further similar coordination for other projects in future.”
