Electricity Storage development is in sharp focus. Across the whole of the UK, developers are looking to find suitable opportunities to build this much needed form of development. Opportunities exist to identify and develop viable sites “ if you happen to know where to look!
TNEI has been assisting clients to find suitable sites utilising a unique set of skills to identify those areas with the best commercial viability, whilst also having the lowest possible environmental impact.
Importantly, site finding always begins with the identification of substations with sufficient import and export grid capacity availability. No viable grid connection, no viable project. Any works carried out without undertaking this crucial first step are likely to be abortive, meaning time wasted and money wasted. TNEI’s dedicated developer support team, which includes electrical grid connection specialists, are able to target Distribution Network Operators (DNOs) and identify substations across the entire UK with likely connection capacity.
Our next step is to undertake site searches within proximity of these identified viable grid connections, agreeing first the parameters for this search with our client. Typically, the closer to the substation, the cheaper the connection. Crossing of railway lines, rivers and major road networks can be very difficult to secure and so costly that it renders a project non-viable. TNEI’s specialists can manipulate GIS data and available information to create constraint mapping layers to detect any ecological, heritage or other designation which may hinder development on site. All aspects of the site are considered and assessed in terms of consenting risk. These factors include:
“¢ Land use
“¢ Traffic and Access
“¢ Recreation
“¢ Cultural Heritage
“¢ Landscape and Visual
“¢ Ecological Constraints
“¢ Noise
“¢ Agricultural Grade
“¢ Flood Risk
“¢ Topography and Elevation
“¢ Site Gradient.
A report on each identified site can then be provided to the client and the recommendation given on next steps and how best to mitigate identified development risks. TNEI believes that the most important steps to be considered at the initial stages of any energy development process include consideration of grid connectivity, as well as planning and environmental aspects. TNEI’s ability to provide this joined up service allows our clients to receive bespoke advice, carving out the most effective way forward for projects.
For more information on how we can help with your energy storage site finding requirements, please get in touch by emailing us or calling 0191 211 1400.
