An information session was held at a new Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) site in Banbridge, gathering key stakeholders at one of Northern Ireland's pioneering fully operational sites of scale.

The facility is owned and managed by Heron Energy, with the session focusing on the critical importance of renewable energy storage in helping the region towards its ambitious targets for 2030.

Heron Energy, a subsidiary of Heron Group, has nearly 70 years of leadership in the construction, property development and manufacturing sectors. This expertise underscores their role in spearheading and executing BESS projects crucial to Northern Ireland's energy landscape.

Key stakeholders at the event included industry leaders, elected officials, and government representatives, underscoring BESS's pivotal role in advancing the region's green energy strategy. Participants were treated to a thorough tour of the Banbridge BESS facility, providing first-hand exposure to its state-of-the-art technology and strategic site operations, essential for Northern Ireland's renewable sector advancement.

Heron Energy BESS facilities are at the forefront of this transition, ensuring that excess energy generated from wind and solar sources is stored efficiently and released back into the grid during periods of high demand. This capability not only maximises the use of local renewable energy but also reduces reliance on fossil fuels, contributing to a more sustainable energy future for Northern Ireland.

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Damien O'Callaghan, Managing Director of the Heron Group, commented: "We were delighted to welcome these valued stakeholders to our live BESS site to showcase our commitment to a sustainable energy future. As Northern Ireland aims to generate 80% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030, the necessity of battery energy storage solutions has never been greater. Achieving this target is crucial not only for addressing the climate crisis but also for enhancing our energy security through increased reliance on local electricity generation. As a local business dedicated to sustainability, we understand the urgency of expanding the Heron Energy growth goals. By doing so, we aim to both increase employment opportunities and contribute to solving the energy crisis."

Lord Mayor of Armagh, Banbridge & Craigavon Borough Council, Cllr Sarah Duffy, said: "I was delighted to visit the BESS facility in Banbridge to see the positive impact this technology can have on maximising the use of local renewable energy sources and reducing our reliance on fossil fuels. It is fantastic to see our Council area at the forefront of this journey and play our part in addressing the climate crisis. It is important we continue to work collaboratively with industry leaders like Heron Energy to unlock the full potential of battery energy storage to ensure a cleaner, greener energy future for generations to come."

Suzanne Wylie, Chief Executive, NI Chamber added: "Northern Ireland has a real opportunity to establish itself as a hub for green technology by utilising its extensive natural resources to play a central role in the energy transition. That will require significant input and investment from private sector companies and government working in partnership. Businesses like Heron Group are already leading the way, so it is fantastic to see the Group’s continued commitment to green innovation come to fruition through this new Battery Energy Storage System site. Investment like this is not only vital for meeting sustainability targets, but for stimulating the growth of this important sector and growing its contribution to Northern Ireland’s economy overall."