Developers behind plans for a battery energy storage system in Cumbria say they are delighted to have been given the go-ahead.
Work to start building the scheme, from Recurrent Energy and Windel Energy, on land between Todhills and Westlinton in Carlisle is expected to start in 2029.
The Harker site comprises of three fields and will include approximately 162 battery container units.
The system will be connected to the nearby Harker National Grid substation via an underground 400kV cable, anticipated to be buried in the road. The build start date is subject to a grid connection date, currently under review for acceleration with National Grid
The plans were approved by Cumberland Council.
Jamie Knott, managing director of Windel Energy, said: “We are delighted to receive planning consent for this project and it is a testament to our ongoing commitment to deliver a more sustainable future for the generations that follow.
“Cumberland Council clearly recognise the need for the project, and we have enjoyed working alongside them to ensure that the project we deliver is technically and environmentally acceptable, while supporting a decarbonised electricity network and the delivery of tangible local benefits.”
Harry Wilder, head of business development UK at Recurrent Energy, said: “The consenting of the Harker 200MW/400MWh project marks a momentous moment for Recurrent Energy in the UK.
“It is our first battery energy storage system to reach this milestone both with our development partner Windel Energy and in our wider multi-GW portfolio of Energy Storage.
“Recurrent Energy is committed in our mission, and the deployment of battery energy storage systems are crucial to the successful role out of clean, green renewable generation which is necessary to meet the UK’s globally leading climate goals and secure the future of generations to come.”
On completion the owner will provide a local community benefit fund of £200,000 for the parish councils to draw from and invest in the community as appropriate.
