FRV, Harmony Energy power up Europe’s largest battery energy storage system in UK

In a significant stride towards the decarbonisation of the UK’s energy grid, Fotowatio Renewable Ventures (FRV), part of Abdul Latif Jameel Energy, in partnership with Harmony Energy, a key player in the renewable energy sector across Europe and New Zealand, have proudly announced the energisation of the Clay Tye battery energy storage system (BESS). Situated in Essex, Clay Tye stands as Europe’s joint largest BESS by megawatt-hour (MWh), a monumental achievement in the realm of renewable energy infrastructure.

The Clay Tye site, boasting a formidable capacity of 99MW / 198MWh, now holds the title as the joint largest operational project of its kind within Europe. This innovative system is equipped to supply over 300,000 UK homes with energy for two hours, illustrating a substantial leap in addressing energy supply and sustainability challenges.

Following the successful implementations of FRV and Harmony Energy’s previous projects, including the West-Sussex BESS (Contego) with a capacity of 34MW / 68MWh, and the Holes Bay BESS of 7.5MW / 15MWh, Clay Tye embodies FRV’s commitment to expanding its global footprint in energy storage, with ongoing developments in the UK, Australia, Mexico, Chile, and Spain.

Employing 52 of Tesla’s Megapack lithium-ion batteries, paired with the cutting-edge Autobidder AI software, Clay Tye represents the pinnacle of efficiency and sustainability in project management and energy capacity sharing. These high-capacity batteries, amassing to 198 MWh, are integrated into the UK Power Networks distribution network. This setup not only facilitates the storage of energy from renewable sources but also enhances the UK’s national grid’s on-peak flexibility, advancing the shift from fossil fuels.

The inauguration of Clay Tye attracted notable figures, including His Royal Highness Prince Khalid Bin Bandar Al Saud, Saudi Ambassador to the UK, and executives from FRV and Harmony Energy. Their presence underscores the project’s pivotal role in bolstering UK energy security through international collaboration and investment.

Felipe Hernández, Chief Innovation Officer at FRV, emphasized Clay Tye’s significance in reinforcing the company’s market leadership and commitment to sustainable business practices. Echoing this sentiment, Peter Kavanagh, CEO of Harmony Energy, highlighted the project’s contribution to energy affordability and grid decarbonisation.

As BESS becomes an increasingly crucial element of the global energy landscape, Abdul Latif Jameel Energy’s Deputy Chairman, Fady Jameel, articulated the project’s alignment with the company’s mission to foster sustainable energy transitions and establish lasting legacies in the communities they serve.

The Clay Tye project is a testament to the potential of battery storage technology in revolutionizing energy systems, promoting sustainability, and enhancing energy security. By integrating advanced technologies like Tesla’s Megapack and AI software, FRV and Harmony Energy are setting new standards in renewable energy storage, marking a significant milestone in the UK’s journey towards a decarbonized energy grid.