A computer-generated drawing of the proposed Pembroke BESS
A computer generated plan of the proposed Pembroke BESS. Image: RWE

Power producer RWE has moved forward with proposals for a 350MW battery energy storage system (BESS) to be located next to its Pembroke Power Station in Wales.

The proposed BESS would be located on 5.1 hectares of land next to the current Pembroke Power Station and would comprise 212 battery containers and 106 power conversion systems (PCS) which would allow the system to be connected to the UK power grid.

A pre-application consultation period has begun; members of the local community can provide feedback on the proposed planning application until Monday, July 15. RWE emphasised its commitment to environmental responsibility, noting that the proposals include plans for planting species-rich meadows, native woodland and scrub planting, and a new large pond to support local wildlife.

Commenting on the proposals, Richard Little, Pembroke Net Zero Centre director, said: “RWE Pembroke Battery represents the next step in our plans to invest in new innovative energy technologies, as part of our vision for Pembroke Net Zero Centre. We would like to thank those who engaged with us in our Green Hydrogen consultation and encourage the community to get involved with the consultation process, learn more about our battery energy storage proposals, and have their say on the proposals.”

RWE in the UK

RWE has made major moves in the UK market this year. In March, the company announced that it had begun construction on its first seven UK solar and energy storage sites, which together represent 330MW of solar capacity and 45MW of co-located energy storage capacity.

In April, the company entered into its first UK-based solar power purchase agreement (PPA) with the UK subsidiary of Kerry Group, who will offtake power from RWE’s upcoming Cotmoor and Copse Lodge solar farms. Each of these upcoming solar projects will have an installed capacity of 49.9MW.

Last month, RWE launched the second round of consultations for the proposed 320MW Peartree Hill Solar Farm. If approved, the site would be located near Beverly, in the East Riding of Yorkshire, with an estimated lifespan of 40 years.