SSE Renewables has obtained a fully consented 100MW / 200MWh battery storage project near Dungannon in County Tyrone from Heron Energy.

If delivered, the Derrymeen battery energy storage system (BESS) which has an installed capacity of 100MW / 200MW, would be the largest installed battery storage facility in Northern Ireland. Dependent on a final investment decision by SSE Renewables, the shovel-ready project will be constructed on a greenfield site located outside Coalisland, around five miles from Dungannon.

The Derrymeen BESS has a capacity to store up to 200MWh of energy, ready to be dispatched flexibly when Northern Ireland homes and businesses require it during peak demand periods. In times of need, it can supply backup energy to support over 135,000 homes in Northern Ireland for up to two hours at a time.

The Derrymeen project marks SSE Renewables' debut in battery storage development in Northern Ireland. It would deliver substantial economic advantages and job opportunities for County Tyrone and Northern Ireland throughout its construction phase. Pending final approval, construction is set to begin early next year, with operational status targeted by the end of 2026, offering a promising uplift to the local economy.

Mark Ennis, Chairperson of SSE plc in Ireland, said: "With the return of the Stormont Executive, there is no better time for SSE to be making its first investment in a battery storage project in Northern Ireland. The delivery of the Derrymeen battery project would make an important contribution to SSE plc’s overall Net Zero Acceleration Programme, our fully funded five-year investment plan which will see SSE Renewables investing over £7bn to 2027, or almost £4m a day on average, to deliver the low carbon energy infrastructure that will support the UK and Ireland’s transition to net zero, including new battery storage technology."

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Battery storage technology is important in supporting the path to net zero because of its ability to hold and release energy when most needed. Batteries work by storing energy when output from natural sources such as wind is high, and then releasing it as required at times of peak energy demand. They are fast responding and will play an increasingly important role in Northern Ireland’s energy mix as more carbon-based generation in the region is phased out and further replaced by more renewables.

Daniel Barnes, Head of Solar and Battery Development (Ireland), SSE Renewables, said: "This acquisition further demonstrates SSE Renewables’ aim to lead the way in the transition to net zero, as we build out vital battery energy storage systems that will be capable of making the grid more resilient, while maximising the opportunity to harness surplus renewable energy generated from onshore wind and solar generation in Northern Ireland for use at times when the wind doesn’t blow and the sun doesn’t shine. We look forward to working with policy and regulatory authorities in Northern Ireland to ensure much-needed energy storage solutions can be delivered in the region and operate effectively within the framework of the All-Island Single Energy Market."

In 2023, the project obtained planning approval from Mid Ulster District Council. The energy storage facility is set to link up with Northern Ireland's electricity grid through an underground cable, connecting it to the nearby Tamnamore substation.

Damien O’Callaghan, Managing Director, Heron Group, stated: "At the heart of our vision and values lies a commitment to sustainability and responsible business practices. Embracing renewable technology through Heron Energy underpins this dedication, and is aligned with our overarching Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Vision 2030 strategy. This is the first of a large number of developments currently underway and by harnessing the power of renewables, we will not only reduce our carbon footprint but also contribute to a brighter, cleaner future for generations to come. These projects are only viable due to the forward thinking by SONI and local councils such as Mid Ulster District Council in allowing investment in grid infrastructure to safeguard power users in the area."

Suzanne Wylie, Chief Executive, Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NI Chamber) added: "This deal marks a significant milestone between two leading businesses with a very strong footprint across Northern Ireland. The investment is timely, as NI businesses continue to reiterate the need to deliver a strong energy infrastructure which supports their sustainability targets. When complete, the Derrymeen project will play a significant role in delivering the region’s green growth potential and be an enabler of the low carbon economy of the future."

SSE Renewables is expanding its portfolio beyond Derrymeen. Presently, the company is progressing with an 80MW battery endeavor in Tawnaghamore, County Mayo, and a 100MW battery initiative in Tarbert, County Kerry. Across Great Britain, SSE Renewables has commenced operations with its inaugural battery asset in Salisbury. Concurrently, it's advancing the construction of a 150MW battery project in Ferrybridge, West Yorkshire, slated for completion in the first half of next year. Additionally, SSE Renewables is developing a second 150MW project at Fiddlers Ferry, along with a substantial 320MW battery project in Monk Fryston, North Yorkshire. Advisers on the transaction were Grant Thornton (Corporate Finance) and Tughans (Legal) for Heron Energy, and A&L Goodbody Northern Ireland for SSE Renewables (Legal).