CIP launches major energy storage system in Scotland

Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP) begins construction in Scotland of a 500 MW / 1,000MWh energy storage system, one of the largest in Europe, marking a significant step forward in renewable energy storage.

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CIP validates the construction of an energy storage system in Coalburn, Scotland. With a capacity of 500 MW / 1,000 MWh, this system is one of the largest in Europe. The project is the result of a partnership between CIP and Alcemi to deploy 4 GW of energy storage assets across the UK, marking a significant step towards achieving the country’s energy transition goals.

Strengthening Britain’s energy network

The CIP portfolio will provide vital support to the UK’s energy network, facilitating the integration of renewable energy and accelerating the transition to carbon neutrality by 2050. With two more projects planned for the following year, totalling over 1 GW of capacity, CIP is firmly committed to supporting the UK’s energy infrastructure.

Ecological and technical advances

The Coalburn 1 site stands out for its ecological measures, including the preservation of peat bogs, the planting of trees and wildflowers, and the creation of new habitats for biodiversity. These environmental initiatives are accompanied by technical innovations, such as the conversion of existing facilities to use liquid biomass, a first for a power plant of this size in Europe.

Positive environmental and economic impacts

In addition to reducing dependence on fossil fuels, the project will significantly reduce CO2 emissions, estimated at 500,000 tonnes per year. It also provides balancing services for the UK electricity grid, lowering costs for end consumers. These benefits are in line with CIP’s commitment to innovative and sustainable energy storage solutions.

Key Collaborations and Partnerships

The project is supported by renowned partners such as Canadian Solar’s e-STORAGE for the energy storage solution, and H&MV Engineering for the installation work. SSE Energy Markets will provide optimization services for the project. CIP, as a world leader in renewable energy investment, demonstrates its proactive and innovative approach to green energy.

CIP’s initiative at Coalburn represents a major step in the evolution of renewable energy storage in Europe. It illustrates the importance of innovation and partnership in achieving an efficient, environmentally-friendly energy transition.

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