TotalEnergies has completed the acquisition of West Burton Energy from EIG, adding the West Burton B gas-fired power station to its portfolio. This modern power plant, equipped with three combined-cycle turbines (CCGT) and a 49 MW battery storage system, was commissioned in 2013 and supplies around 1.8 million homes. This acquisition enables TotalEnergies to compensate for the intermittency of its renewable projects, ensuring a continuous supply of electricity. With 1.1 GW of installed renewable generation capacity and 4.5 GW under development in the UK, TotalEnergies plans to dispose of 50% of the West Burton B assets, in order to maintain 700 MW of gas-fired generation capacity. This strategy reflects the company’s commitment to providing reliable, sustainable energy while strengthening its trading capabilities in the electricity and gas markets. This project will further strengthen the UK’s energy investments as it seeks to diversify its resources, notably with new historic nuclear projects.
Strengthening Gas Trading and Supply Capacities
The integration of West Burton B will enable TotalEnergies to strengthen its trading operations in the UK, increasing its ability to offer affordable and available energy. By leveraging its positions in natural gas production, where it operates 30% of the country’s projects, TotalEnergies can optimize supply to the newly acquired plant. This transaction brings TotalEnergies’ global flexible power generation portfolio to around 7 GW of gross capacity. At the same time, the company continues to develop its renewable energy projects, reaching a capacity of 23 GW worldwide. This strategic diversification is crucial to achieving the company’s target of 12% profitability by 2028.
A Strong Presence in the United Kingdom
Present in the UK for over 60 years, TotalEnergies employs over 1,800 people across the entire energy value chain. The company is a major player in the hydrocarbon sector, operating around 30% of the UK’s continental shelf gas production. In 2023, TotalEnergies’ average production will reach 142,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day. TotalEnergies’ offshore wind portfolio in the UK is also substantial, with over 5 GW of gross renewable capacity, including projects such as Seagreen (1.1 GW in operation) and other major projects under development such as West of Orkney (2 GW) and Outer Dowsing (1.5 GW). The company is also a leading supplier of gas and electricity to businesses and the public sector, with over 300,000 customers. The acquisition of West Burton B marks a key step for TotalEnergies in its strategy to diversify and strengthen its flexible energy production capabilities. This operation consolidates its position in the UK market and supports its growth and profitability objectives.
