Latest news with #BatteryEnergyStorageSystems
The National
5 days ago
- Politics
- The National
53 community councils demand Scottish Highland energy projects pause
Councils from across the Highland region gathered both in person in Beauly and online on Saturday to discuss their concerns over the pace and the scale of projects such as windfarms, battery storage sites, and transmission lines. Representatives shared their widespread frustration at how applications are being handled by developers, the government, and national planners. Collectively, more than 72,000 residents from Skye to Caithness were represented by those gathered, which is being described as "the largest gathering of community councils in Highland Council history". READ MORE: 2031 Scotland census planning underway as public input sought on new questions The convention collectively called for a national planning inquiry and an immediate pause on major energy applications until their cumulative impact can be fully assessed. Speaking at Phipps Hall, Stuart Mills representing Halkirk and District Community Council listed concerns of his community, describing the area as "under siege". 'Caithness, and especially the Halkirk area, is under siege from energy projects. We must remind ourselves these are business ventures designed to make a profit.' 'Immediate action is needed to address the totality of all the developments and their supporting infrastructure,' he added. READ MORE: UK 'feeding Scotland poison pills', John Swinney says Speaking remotely, Mark Gibson of Dunnet and Canisbay Community Council said he and his team are provided with little support when faced with complex applications. Gibson shared: 'We are a small group of volunteers. Reading through hundred-page documents and engaging with multiple developers in a single year is simply beyond our capacity". He added: "There seems to be no one single energy strategy, just a year-by-year, scheme-by-scheme advancement with very little benefit showing for the local communities. 'We pay the highest prices in the UK for electricity, and that annoys many of our constituents when the energy is being generated or stored almost in their backyard.' SNP MSP Maree Todd (below), for Caithness, Sutherland and Ross, responded to the convention's statement, and said she had written to Cabinet Secretary for Climate Action and Net Zero, Gillian Martin, following the meeting to request a response to the issues set out. She added: 'I have been engaging extensively with both the Scottish and UK Governments on a range of planning and regulatory matters. "These discussions have centred around the issue of cumulative impact of developments on communities, the safety and regulation of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), and the importance of meaningful and ongoing community engagement throughout the planning process. 'I remain committed to raising these issues at every opportunity, ensuring that the views and concerns of my constituents are clearly heard and given full weight in all decision-making." READ MORE: Art workshop helps refugee women to celebrate 'strength found in community' Tory MSP Edward Mountain, for the Highlands and Islands, also responded, telling campaigners: 'I have long said that it is essential we do not sacrifice the Highlands on the altar of net zero.
Time of India
10-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Govt clears ₹5,400 cr VGF for 30 GWh battery storage, plans 1100 kV UHV lines, raises RoW compensation
New Delhi: The Centre has approved a Viability Gap Funding (VGF) scheme worth ₹5,400 crore to support development of 30 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), Union Power Minister Manohar Lal said on Tuesday. This is in addition to the 13.2 GWh of BESS already under implementation. The VGF-backed scheme is expected to help meet India's storage requirement by 2028 and attract an investment of ₹33,000 crore. At a press conference, the minister also announced an extension of the waiver of inter-state transmission charges for storage projects until June 30, 2028. The exemption will be applicable to pumped storage projects awarded and battery storage systems commissioned before the deadline. 'This extension will support the development of storage needed to meet the country's requirements,' said Manohar Lal. To enhance the national grid infrastructure, the government will roll out Ultra High Voltage Alternating Current (UHVAC) Transmission Systems. Nine lines of 1100 kV have been identified for development by 2034. Testing facilities for these lines and associated equipment are being developed by the Central Power Research Institute. In another move to encourage infrastructure rollout, the government has revised the compensation structure under the Right of Way (RoW) rules. Compensation for tower area has been increased from 85 per cent to 200 per cent of land value, while compensation for the RoW corridor has been raised from 15 per cent to 30 per cent. The payments will now be linked to the market value of the land. Supplementary guidelines for assessing land rates using registered valuers were issued on March 21, 2025, and have been adopted by Haryana and Delhi. In order to promote private investment in intra-state transmission projects , the government has brought payments to intra-state transmission systems under the Late Payment Surcharge Rules, aligning them with existing provisions for inter-state transmission systems. The announcements come at a time when the government is looking to accelerate deployment of energy storage and grid infrastructure to support its renewable energy targets .
The Hindu
04-06-2025
- Business
- The Hindu
Role of BESS in shaping India's Energy Transition
The climate crisis has changed the idea of energy security. A country's energy sources must stand firm on four planks: availability, accessibility, affordability, and environmental acceptability. Environmental acceptability focuses on the trade-offs policymakers and the public are willing to make in terms of pollution, biodiversity loss, and greenhouse gas emissions. In this context, renewables have strengthened their position as an energy source that provides affordable power with lower emissions. They are important for the fulfillment of Sustainable Development Goal 7, which focuses on access to clean energy. The case for integrating green energy into power systems is further strengthened by looming climate risks and geopolitical tensions. However, increasing renewable energy capacity may not have the desired results due to the intermittent nature of the resource. Energy storage technologies, such as Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), offer a crucial solution to mitigate the variability of renewable energy while enhancing grid stability. Why energy storage matters With the potential to enhance grid operations, enable large-scale integration of renewables, and provide reliable power, energy storage systems are critical to the energy transition. Among the technologies available, BESS stands out for its affordability, scalability, rapid deployment, and geographical flexibility. By stabilising the grid, balancing demand-supply fluctuations, and enabling peak load management, BESS plays a foundational role across all forms of energy storage. Integrating BESS into the grid with renewables can considerably reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the power sector. Further, its ability to support decentralised energy solutions and microgrids ensures renewable energy reaches where it is needed most, making BESS a key enabler of a cleaner, more resilient, and equitable energy ecosystem. Declining costs and technological advancements lead to the accelerating expansion of BESS. Over the past 15 years, the average cost of batteries has fallen by nearly 90%. However, despite this progress, utilisation of its full potential is impeded by regulatory, technical, financial, and market barriers. India's BESS Landscape Emerging economies such as India can lead by example in BESS deployment through a combination of financing and policy measures. India has set a target of 500 GW of installed power capacity from non-conventional fuels by 2030. As of January 2025, the country had already achieved 217.62 GW. To achieve full results, BESS deployment must be accelerated. In this regard, the government has committed to installing 47 GW of BESS by 2032 to enable increased renewable deployment and its integration with the grid. Schemes such as Viability Gap Funding and waiver of interstate transmission system charges for BESS projects commissioned by June 2025 have been enacted to support BESS projects. But progress has been slow. In the Economic Survey 2024-25, the Indian government highlighted the challenges associated with scaling up renewable energy and energy storage deployment — including the lack of investment for grid upgradation, speed of BESS deployment by large customers, access to critical minerals needed for indigenisation of storage technology, and delays in large-scale BESS agreements. The survey called for focusing on innovation and investment for resolving challenges in procuring battery storage, grid infrastructure, and critical minerals. Innovative partnerships can help scale up BESS deployment. Using an alliance of public, private, and philanthropic entities can provide concessional funding and technical assistance for BESS. Following the idea of leveraging collaboration to bring results, the BESS pilot project was initiated in Delhi by BSES Rajdhani Private Limited in partnership with IndiGrid Infrastructure Trust (IndiGrid) and Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP). The commissioning of the 20 MW/40 MWh BESS project at BRPL's 33/11 kV Kilokari substation is a milestone for India's energy storage. It will provide a reliable power supply for over 12,000 low-income consumers. The project marks a significant step forward toward India's goal of 47 GW of energy storage by 2030, creating a technical playbook for BESS adoption, supporting regulatory reforms, and incentivising future BESS projects. Another example of how partnerships can help scale up BESS deployment in India is EnerGrid — a $300 million platform for developing greenfield transmission and standalone BESS projects. It was launched in 2024 by IndiGrid, British International Investment, and the Norwegian Climate Investment Fund managed by Norfund. Facilitating more such initiatives will be key to increasing BESS deployment in India, fulfilling SDG 7 commitments, enhancing energy security, and improving grid stability. Emerging as a leader India has been emerging as a leader in renewable energy deployment. The reasons for increasing renewables in the energy supply are to reduce emissions and create independence from imports of conventional fuels. However, the full potential of renewable energy cannot be achieved without energy storage. To become energy secure, India must complement its renewable energy capacity with BESS. With partnerships, expeditious large-scale BESS projects for central and State grids, concessional financing, technological aid, manufacturing localisation, and recycling opportunities, India can utilise BESS to its fullest extent. This can make India a leader among emerging economies in terms of BESS projects. As a member of the BESS consortium, founded by GEAPP, India has been focusing on deploying energy storage to ensure any increase in renewable energy power capacity can be utilised to its full potential. With more alliances, India can emerge as an energy-secure nation with flexible grids and increased renewable deployment. Saurabh Kumar, vice-president, India, Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet; Harsh Shah, CEO & executive director, IndiGrid
North Wales Live
04-06-2025
- Business
- North Wales Live
Giant batteries are a huge opportunity for Wales but they must not be built close to homes
The transition to greener energy is already underway and a key part of that transition will be battery storage of surplus electricity - a surplus we already have in abundance in Wales. Electricity generation by green means is already cheaper and, although Wales is the fifth largest exporter of electricity in the world (let that fact sink in for a moment), Welsh communities do not benefit as much as we would wish from that production. Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) are increasingly becoming an issue across our communities – and it's a rapid and largely unregulated rise. It's recognised as a vital tool to reach net zero but the rush to deliver these large-scale developments without proper scrutiny cannot go unchallenged. Let's first acknowledge their importance - BESS are a cornerstone of Wales's strategy to achieve net zero emissions and transition to a clean energy future. As the country accelerates the shift away from fossil fuels toward renewable energy sources, the importance of effective energy storage cannot be overstated. Renewables are variable — the sun doesn't always shine and the wind doesn't always blow. BESS technology addresses this by storing excess electricity generated and releasing it when demand is high or when generation dips. This stabilises the grid, ensuring a constant and reliable energy supply regardless of fluctuations in generation. For Wales, BESS offers a practical solution to balance supply and demand and make the most of our clean energy assets. Furthermore, investing in BESS creates economic opportunities for Wales. It can stimulate job creation in green technology, engineering and innovation, while positioning the country as a leader in sustainable infrastructure. Industries dependent on heavy energy demand, such as steel, can be guaranteed reliable and cheap electricity supplies. So BESS technology is not a luxury – it's a necessity for a net-zero Wales. Clean energy and smart infrastructure must be encouraged - but a careful balance needs to be struck. Development must be guided by strong planning policy, safety standards and community engagement. The projects being proposed aren't happening on remote industrial parks. They're being planned within metres of homes, schools, and places of work. And the concerns raised by local residents are real - particularly around thermal runaway fires, which have caused serious incidents around the world. One such incident was at Moss Landing in California in January 2025. The fire destroyed approximately 80% of the batteries in the affected building and led to the evacuation of around 1,500 residents due to concerns over toxic smoke emissions. The incident raised environmental concerns, as elevated levels of heavy metals such as manganese, cobalt and nickel were detected. These contaminants pose potential risks to both the environment and public health. Here in Wales, the proposed Ynni Celyn scheme by developers NatPower in Gwyddelwern, Denbighshire is set to be one of the largest BESS sites in Europe. The development would house millions of batteries across nearly 1,000 shipping containers on a 75-acre greenfield site close to this small village. Understandably, the scale and proximity of the project to homes has sparked serious concern among local residents. A community campaign group has voiced strong objections - not only about the size and location of the facility, but also regarding the nature of the developers' engagement with the community. The community has also expressed scepticism toward the developer's reassurances on safety. Similar concerns are also being expressed about other large-scale BESS proposals in Northop, Rhostyllen and other communities across the country. The current planning system has become a free-for-all. In a new gold rush, developers are surging forward with applications that often fall far short of the safety or location assurances that communities deserve. I'm therefore calling on the Government to take back control of this space — with a strong, national framework that: Balances the interests of industry with the rights of local people. Includes clear, science-based criteria for where and how BESS can be sited. And restores public trust in the integrity of the planning system. Given the current risks, gaps in oversight and community concern, the Government must impose a moratorium on large-scale BESS projects that exceed 250MWh in capacity and are located within a kilometre of homes. This is not a call to stop clean energy, but a call to deliver it responsibly. The 250MWh threshold allows smaller, lower-risk projects to proceed and the 1km buffer mirrors new safety regulations in California, introduced after the Moss Landing incident. A moratorium gives us time to do things right. Alongside the moratorium, I'm urging the Welsh Government to launch a full, independent risk assessment into the safety and environmental impacts of large-scale BESS. The results of that assessment should shape new national planning policy. Wales must not repeat the mistakes of the past - where poorly regulated development was justified in the name of progress. Clean energy must be safe energy and climate action must be community-driven. Let's work together to build a net-zero Wales that is safe, sustainable, and worthy of the trust of our people.
Yahoo
03-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
FlexGen and Rosendin Partner to Deliver First-of-its-Kind Battery Storage Solution for Data Centers
New utility-scale battery solution will support AI training workloads, fast-shifting loads and extreme power density expectations DURHAM, N.C., June 03, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--FlexGen Power Systems LLC ("FlexGen"), a leading battery energy storage solution and energy management software provider, and Rosendin, the nation's largest employee-owned electrical contracting company, are integrating their proprietary technology and solutions to leverage utility-scale Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) to support modern data centers without the need for traditional uninterruptible power supply (UPS) infrastructure. The project will integrate proprietary technology and innovations from both Rosendin and FlexGen, including Rosendin's BESSUPS design and method patent, and FlexGen's Soft Grid Interconnection and Island Grid Transient Frequency Stabilization patents. The project will further leverage FlexGen's Innovation Lab to integrate its powerful HybridOS energy management system. This is complimented by Rosendin's industry leading data center delivery experience and extensive mission critical and storage energy thought leadership. The BESSUPS system offers several advantages, namely CEBMA-quality power on an uninterrupted basis on a massive scale while avoiding the use of generators for clients choosing to decarbonize. This approach offers further benefit to the end user of dispatchable power to the Utility upon demand. This approach also allows the end user to meet the evolving power dispatch and consumption dynamic with proven Utility-scale and -grade systems. The energy demands of AI training workloads, high-density computing, and fast-shifting loads are stretching the limits of conventional power infrastructure inside data center buildings. FlexGen and Rosendin have been working on a utility-scale battery solution outside the data center building that would be a part of the medium-voltage (1000V to 35000V) infrastructure. The companies will bring to market a first-of-its-kind BESS system that can act as a reliable, high-performance alternative to conventional UPS systems outside the data center building while simplifying system architecture and reducing capital expenditures. Through this initiative, FlexGen and Rosendin are performing real-world, grid-connected tests that will prove: Existing grid-forming PCS technology can meet fast-response and waveform control requirements Modifications to current AC Power Conversion System (PCS) firmware enhancements from OEMs will support seamless UPS replacement functionality Utility-scale BESS can support mission-critical loads, enhance resiliency, and simplify transition between grid-connected and islanded modes "As data centers scale to meet exponential demand from AI and hyperscale computing, we need to rethink how we deliver power resilience across the modern data center campus," said Pasi Taimela, Chief Innovation Officer of FlexGen. "This effort with Rosendin enables us to bring to market a smarter, leaner, and more responsive approach to data center energy design that doesn't require any redesigns inside the walls of the data center—one where battery systems provide both power quality and grid services without compromise." "Data center developers are looking for scalable and flexible power solutions that don't compromise on performance," said Bill Mazzetti, SVP of Rosendin. "With FlexGen's Innovation Lab and our experience in building complex electrical systems, we're positioned to validate a solution that helps our clients build faster, smarter, and with more confidence." Battery Energy Storage Systems configured as interactive UPS alternatives offer significant value across the development lifecycle—from reducing electrical footprint and construction complexity to increasing energy efficiency and operational resiliency. This solution development reflects FlexGen's and Rosendin's shared focus on solving the most pressing energy infrastructure challenges facing data center facilities- speed, energy costs, reliable cutovers, and power quality. Results from the integration will help inform system architecture standards, procurement planning, and large-scale deployment strategies for future data center projects and suppliers across the industry. About Rosendin Rosendin, headquartered in San Jose, CA, is employee-owned and one of the largest electrical contractors in the United States, employing over 7,500 people, with average annual revenues of $2.9 billion. Established in 1919, Rosendin remains proud of our more than 100 years of building quality electrical and communications installations and value for our clients but, most importantly, for building people within our company and our communities. Our customers lead some of the most complex construction projects in history and rely on us for our knowledge, ability to scale, and dedication to quality. At Rosendin, we work to ensure that everyone can reach their full potential by building a diverse, safe, welcoming, and inclusive culture. For more information, visit Rosendin Energy Group (REG) is an EPC providing renewable, microgrid and mixed modality energy plant design, planning, and construction for a wide variety of energy projects. s. REG has installed nearly 9 GW of Utility-scale power throughout the U.S. and offers a comprehensive portfolio of construction services including design-build, substation and switchyard installation, plant construction, vertical tower wiring, overhead collection systems and transmission lines, AC & DC collection systems, and substation design and communications integration. About FlexGen Power Systems, LLC FlexGen provides industry-leading software and services for deploying, managing and optimizing battery energy storage systems. FlexGen leverages decades of engineering, procurement and software expertise to solve today's toughest energy challenges that enable the transition to a modern electric grid. FlexGen HybridOS energy management software seamlessly integrates with any battery OEM and offers advanced analytics and AI-driven insights that allow energy storage owners to deploy diverse power market strategies and integrate various generation forms, enhancing grid stability and economic returns. With 1.5M hours of runtime and more than 10 GWh of energy storage systems enabled by FlexGen, we are trusted by the most technically and commercially demanding developers, utilities, government agencies, and industrial companies in the world. Forward-looking statements: This press release contains forward-looking statements regarding future operations, project timelines, and market growth. Actual results may vary based on external factors and market conditions. View source version on Contacts For media inquiries, please contact:Krelja@ and sbown@
