The 100MW system will provide enough electricity to power over 26,000 homes at peak times of demand, assisting the Government’s objective to ensure energy security and lower energy costs.

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George Wilyman, Planning Manager from Aura Power told Selby District Councillors that “by 2035, theGovernment forecasts that 100% of our energy will be provided by renewable and nuclear technologies.  The proposed development near to Drax will therefore directly support the effective transition to a renewable future. The alternative is generating power from diesel, gas or hydro-electric at times of high demand”.

The site was selected due to the available nearby grid connection required for import and export, which due to constraints on the grid are becoming increasingly harder to find and secure. A grid connection has been secured at Drax Power Station, 600m from the site.

Peter Thomas, UK BESS Development Manager at Aura Power said “We understand that developments like this, close to rural settlements, cause concerns locally, which is why we have taken great care to listen to those concerns by making several substantial amendments to the proposed development. We have included extensive hedgerow and tree planting around the entire perimeter as well as a bund to the north of the development which will help screen it from view. We have also committed to resurfacing the access lane proposed for construction, ensuring it is in abetter condition for local residents than it is at present”.

Construction is anticipated to begin in 2024 following a Construction Traffic Management Plan, agreed with the council. Local residents will be notified in advance and are welcome to contact Aura Power with their queries at any point.

Drax battery storage is the third battery storage planning application that Aura Power has had approved this year, adding 290MW to theUK’s ready to build BESS pipeline. Aura Power has a further 3GW+ of battery storage projects in development in the UK and internationally.

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