Isbillen Power Reserve project : Neoen launches construction of Nordic’s largest battery

Neoen, a global leader in renewable energy production, has officially commenced the construction of the Isbillen Power Reserve project, marking a significant milestone in the renewable energy sector. Following a turnkey Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contract signed with battery storage expert Nidec in December 2023, Neoen has given the full notice to proceed, signaling the start of construction on this landmark project. The commencement ceremony took place during the French-Swedish Business Forum in Stockholm, in the esteemed presence of French President Emmanuel Macron, highlighting the project’s significance on an international level.

Set to become the largest battery in the Nordics, the Isbillen Power Reserve will feature a 93.9 MW / 93.9 MWh lithium-ion battery system, located in Västernorrland county, Sweden. This strategic location, near Neoen’s other Swedish battery project, the Storen Power Reserve, and connected to the 130 kV E.ON grid, underscores Neoen’s commitment to enhancing the region’s energy stability. The battery is expected to be operational in the first half of 2025, providing critical Frequency Containment Reserve services to the Swedish transmission system operator, Svenska Kraftnät. This will aid in maintaining the balance between energy production and consumption, reduce grid stabilization costs, and facilitate the integration of renewable energy sources.

In a robust show of support for European industry, the Isbillen Power Reserve project will source more than half of its value from within Europe. Battery containers will be manufactured and assembled in Nidec’s factory in France, while inverters will be produced in Italy. Swedish companies will undertake the civil and electrical works, with project management and engineering efforts split between Sweden and France. This pan-European effort not only strengthens the regional economy but also showcases the collaborative potential in advancing renewable energy projects.

With the addition of the Isbillen Power Reserve, Neoen significantly bolsters its portfolio in Sweden, which already includes the Storbrännkullen wind farm, the Storen Power Reserve battery, and the Hultsfred solar park. Laetitia Prot, Managing Director of Neoen Sweden, emphasized the company’s dynamic presence in the country, stating, “With now over 300 MW of assets in operation or under construction in the country, including 146 MW of batteries, we are among the most dynamic players in renewable energy in Sweden.” This sentiment was echoed by Martin Höhler, CEO of E.ON Energidistribution, who noted the project’s crucial role in stabilizing the Swedish grid and supporting renewable energy deployment.

The Isbillen Power Reserve project exemplifies Neoen’s strategic focus on increasing its investment in storage solutions, a critical component of the global transition to renewable energy. Xavier Barbaro, Neoen’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, highlighted the project’s significance in accelerating the energy transition, stating, “Batteries unlock the full potential of renewables by facilitating the integration of solar and wind power.” With nearly 1.6 GW / 3.1 GWh of batteries in operation or under construction, Neoen is cementing its position as a leading player in the storage sector, contributing to a more sustainable and resilient energy future.