Balance Power wins approval for 49.5 MW battery storage site in Hinksford

Balance Power has secured planning approval for a new 49.5 MW battery storage project in Hinksford, South Staffordshire. 

The company received unanimous approval from South Staffordshire Council for the project that is set to occupy a footprint of 2.59 hectares and feature 36 battery units. This was partly due to a commitment from Balance Power to enhance the biodiversity in the area, promising a 154.98% uplift in habitat units while preserving existing wildlife. 

Dan Levy, Planning Manager at Balance Power, commented, “Securing planning permission for this battery storage project is set to make a sizeable impact on Hinksford and the surrounding area, creating local construction and operation jobs and bolstering its energy security and reliability.

“This project will be pivotal for balancing out the supply and demand of renewable energy as the UK transitions to net zero and these sources become an ever-growing segment of our national energy mix. We’re grateful for the support from South Staffordshire Council and the local community – it’s due to our collective efforts and close collaboration that we’ve achieved this rewarding outcome.”

The Hinksford battery storage project is scheduled to be operational by autumn next year, and will ultimately be dismantled after its 40-year lifespan, returning the site to its original condition.

Since 2017, Balance Power has advanced nearly 40 energy projects to planning consent, adding 502 MW of capacity to the UK grid.