Balance Power secures planning approval for 49.5MW Hinksford battery storage project

This project will play a critical role in stabilising the grid and helping to power approximately 26,800 homes, by storing renewable energy during peak generation and supplying it back to the grid when demand is high. This is vital as the UK moves toward net zero, with renewable energy becoming more significant in the national energy mix.

The unanimous approval from South Staffordshire Council was achieved through a delegated decision, following an extensive community consultation process. Balance Power collaborated with the community, town council, and local district councillors to address concerns, incorporate feedback and ensure that the project meets community needs. 

The Hinksford project is comprised of 36 battery units and spans 2.59 hectares. By allowing more renewable energy to be integrated into the grid, it will help reduce CO2 emissions by about 18,300 tonnes annually, equivalent to taking around 13,200 cars off the road, or planting 29,200 trees.

Additionally, the project features a biodiversity enhancement plan, promising a 154.98 per cent increase in habitat units and protection of existing wildlife, reflecting Balance Power’s dedication to providing clean energy that meets community needs while generating positive outcomes for the environment.

Dan Levy, Planning Manager at Balance Power, said: “Securing planning permission for this battery storage project is set to make a sizeable impact on Hinksford and the surrounding area, creating local construction and operation jobs and bolstering its energy security and reliability. 

“This project will be pivotal for balancing out the supply and demand of renewable energy as the UK transitions to net zero and these sources become an ever-growing segment of our national energy mix. We’re grateful for the support from South Staffordshire Council and the local community – it’s due to our collective efforts and close collaboration that we’ve achieved this rewarding outcome.” 

The storage facility is expected to be operational by autumn next year. After its 40-year lifespan, the facility will be dismantled, and the site will be restored to its original state.

Since 2017, Balance Power has been pioneering decentralised energy projects across the UK, collaborating with landowners, communities, and councils to achieve national decarbonisation targets. It has successfully advanced nearly 40 energy projects to planning consent, adding 502MW of capacity to the grid. With 2GW of projects in development, Balance Power continues to lead the transformation of the UK’s energy landscape.