Downing Renewable Developments (DRD) has secured planning permission for a battery energy storage park in the Scottish Highlands following an appeal.

The Taigh an Uillt Energy Storage Park near Taynuilt in the Western Highlands will store enough energy to power up to 150,000 homes for a two-hour period with an installed capacity of 49.9MW.

By capturing excess energy from renewable sources such as solar and wind it will reduce the need for fossil fuel-based backup power and support a more resilient and reliable energy grid which improves energy security and increases efficiency.

DRD is committed to working closely with the local community and has pledged a £1,000/MW one-off payment to support local projects once construction starts. Its long-term plan aims to deliver at least 10% more biodiversity than before the site was installed.

It plans to plant a woodland and meadow around the site which will allow the growth of wild flowers and natural habitats for different ecosystems. That will include food sources for bees, butterflies and other pollinators and bee hotels are being considered as part of the project.

Tony Gannon, Head of Downing Renewable Developments said: “We are delighted to have obtained planning consent for the Taigh an Uillt Energy Storage Park and pleased that the Reporter recognised that the site selection was appropriate, and the information submitted as part of the planning application was sufficient to support his determination. We look forward to delivering the Energy Storage Park and contributing to energy resilience in the area, whilst also offering a significant community benefit contribution.”

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Downing has c.90 professionals dedicated to renewable energy and infrastructure and a proven track record in renewables. Since 2010, Downing has made over 200 investments in the core renewables space.  

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