Conrad Energy energised to keep Blackpool’s lights on

Conrad Energy have taken another step forward in support of the UK’s transition to net zero. Mike Denman, Head of Construction, is pleased to confirm that our 25MW 50MWh battery energy storage site (BESS) in Blackpool was successfully energised to Electricity North West’s (ENWL) 33kV network in late January, following stringent pre-commissioning and functional testing of the safety critical features of the plant, and satisfying UK grid compliance testing requirements.

Battery storage is a vital ingredient for the stabilisation of the grid, in line with the transition to renewable and low carbon energy. Battery storage technology has advanced in recent years, allowing it to fulfil its crucial role in maximising the usefulness of renewable energy, by flattening out some of the curves in supply created by weather fluctuations.

Steve Conry, our Chief Operating Officer, goes on to explain that “when operational, the project will support the energy transition by both solving the problem of matching intermittent energy supply with varying grid demand and by providing essential ancillary services such as Dynamic Containment, Dynamic Regulation and Dynamic Moderation.”

Each time one of our sites is brought online marks the culmination of months of preparation work, in partnership with communities, landlords and local authorities. Once the site is fully operational it will be handed over to our Operations and Maintenance teams to ensure it remains at optimal performance, with the power it stores being traded on the markets by our in-house optimisation team.