Ameresco, Envision Energy to construct Cellarhead battery storage project in UK
Ameresco, Inc. (NYSE: AMRC), a leading cleantech integrator known for its energy efficiency and renewable energy solutions, in collaboration with Envision Energy, has been selected by Atlantic Green to undertake the construction of the Cellarhead project—a significant 300-megawatt (MW) battery energy storage system (BESS) in the UK. The project, boasting a maximum energy capacity of 624 megawatt hours (MWh), will connect to the National Grid’s Cellarhead sub-station, enhancing the UK’s energy security and reliability.
Strategic Investment in Energy Storage
The $249 million (196.5 million GBP) Cellarhead BESS project is set to start construction this year, with plans to connect to the electricity grid by the end of 2026. This initiative is a strategic response to the UK’s ambitious net-zero targets, aiming to increase clean energy generation, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and decrease greenhouse gas emissions.
Atlantic Green, established in 2021 through a joint venture between Nofar Energy and Interland Group, aims to develop approximately 2 GW of battery energy storage capacity to fuel the UK’s transition to clean energy. The Cellarhead BESS project represents a significant milestone in Atlantic Green’s development journey and its broader sustainability goals.
Comprehensive Project Details and Partnerships
Ameresco will enter into an Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) and Operations and Maintenance (O&M) contract, which includes the supply of batteries, balance of plant, warranty, and availability guarantees. Envision Energy, a Tier 1 Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), will provide the BESS and associated services, along with equipment warranties.
Nick Bradford, Managing Director of Atlantic Green, emphasized the project’s importance: “We believe that the continuous development of battery energy storage is a vital step in the UK’s journey to achieving net-zero carbon emissions. We are excited to team up with Ameresco to bring this vision to life.”
Mark Apsey, MBE, Senior Vice President of UK Operations at Ameresco, shared his enthusiasm about the collaboration: “Energy storage is one of the key technologies required to achieve the UK’s net zero targets. Together, Ameresco and Atlantic Green will help support the UK’s progress towards increased power autonomy and achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.”
Kane Xu, Global VP of Envision Energy, also commented on the partnership: “This project exemplifies our commitment to pushing the boundaries of battery storage technology. Partnering with Atlantic Green and Ameresco allows us to demonstrate the pivotal role that advanced battery solutions play in enhancing energy security and enabling a seamless transition to renewable energy sources.”