SSE's largest battery energy storage system (BESS) project, located at Monk Fryston in North Yorkshire, has reached a significant construction milestone with the arrival of its battery units.

The 320MW/640MWh project, which began construction in May 2024, is set to become one of the UK's largest operational battery storage sites upon completion in early 2026.

This project is a substantial expansion of SSE Renewables' battery storage capabilities, being over six times the size of their operational 50MW/100MWh battery in Salisbury and more than double the size of their two other 150MW/300MWh BESS sites currently under construction at Ferrybridge and Fiddler’s Ferry, also in Yorkshire.

The arrival of the Sungrow-supplied battery units marks a key delivery stage in the project. Morrison Energy Services, the principal contractor for SSE, will oversee the installation of these units. When fully operational, the Monk Fryston BESS will be capable of powering approximately 533,000 UK homes for up to two hours during peak demand periods.

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Heather Donald, Director of Onshore Wind, Solar and Battery at SSE Renewables, stated: "The arrival of the batteries at Monk Fryston is another significant milestone for our largest battery storage project currently in construction. Working with our principal contractor and supply partners, we are making great progress on the delivery of one of the largest projects of its kind in the UK."

Andy Clark, Contract Director at Morrison Energy Services, added: "We’ve achieved another key milestone on the Monk Fryston 320MW BESS project for SSE Renewables. The first battery assets have now arrived and we are now beginning installations on site, alongside PCS units, that we started installing before Christmas. We look forward to continuing to work closely with SSE Renewables on this critical project which is due to go live during 2026."

Shawn Shi, President of Sungrow Europe, highlighted the importance of advanced storage technology in enhancing grid flexibility and energy security, saying: "This project highlights the crucial role of advanced storage technology in enhancing grid flexibility and energy security. With our innovative PowerTitan system and expert support, along with our esteemed partners we enable seamless and efficient project execution, accelerating the transition to clean energy."

The Monk Fryston BESS project is expected to play a crucial role in providing flexibility to the UK's energy grid, supporting the integration of renewable energy sources and ensuring security of supply.