SSE has secured permission to revise its Mullafarry Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) proposals. The decision represents a key milestone; subject to a final investment decision by SSE, the project would add crucial electricity storage to support a cleaner, more affordable and secure homegrown energy system for Ireland. Its delivery would also create construction jobs and contribute to the local economy through commercial rates once operational.

Planned for an SSE-owned site at Killala Business Park, the scheme sits beside the company's existing 104MW Tawnaghmore Power Station. The approved design allows for up to 64 battery units with associated heating, ventilation and air conditioning equipment and other supporting infrastructure.

As an 80MW/320MWh installation, Mullafarry would be able to store up to four hours of reserve electricity. By storing power when supply is high and releasing it when needed, the facility would provide Ireland's transmission system operator with a dependable and flexible reserve, strengthening security of supply, supporting grid stability and allowing more renewable generation to connect to the national grid.

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If SSE approves delivery following its final investment decision, construction is expected to take up to two years, creating jobs and supporting local suppliers. Once in operation, the site would pay commercial rates to Mayo County Council, helping fund local services and infrastructure.

Ghislain Demeuldre, Head of Onshore Wind, Solar and Battery Development at SSE Renewables, said: "We welcome Mayo County Council's decision to approve our revised plans for the proposed Mullafarry Battery Energy Storage System. This decision gives SSE the potential to significantly increase the energy output we can deliver through the project. By storing electricity when supplies are high and making it available when needed, Mullafarry could help support a more secure, affordable and homegrown electricity system for Ireland. The project would also support jobs and local economic development during construction and operation. Through projects such as Mullafarry, SSE continues to play a leading role in Ireland's energy transition."

Mullafarry is part of SSE's expanding portfolio in the North-West. Alongside the operational Tawnaghmore Power Station at Killala Business Park, SSE is progressing the proposed Glenora and Sheskin South wind farms in North Mayo with partner FuturEnergy Ireland. In West Sligo, the company has also recently submitted plans for the Crumhach Wind Farm at the site of the existing Kingsmountain and Dunneill wind farms.