News Synopsis
SNAPSHOT
Project: Binn Solar and BESS Farm
Developer: BLC Energy (backed by Octopus Renewables Infrastructure Trust)
Location: Perth and Kinross, Scotland
Technology: 39 MW Solar PV + Battery Energy Storage System (BESS)
BESS Function: Stores surplus renewable electricity and dispatches it during periods of higher grid demand
Planning Status: Unanimously approved; grid connection scheduled for 2031
The challenge of modern renewable energy isn't just generation, it’s integration. Addressing this head-on, Perth and Kinross Council has granted unanimous planning permission to the Binn Solar and BESS Farm. A combination of 39 MW solar photovoltaic farm with a dynamic Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) will enable the Strathmiglo development northwest to utilize excess generation and ensure even distribution. The project, which has been made possible through financing from Octopus Renewables Infrastructure Trust, and will benefit from a 2031 grid connection agreement, is an indication of the coming wave of dispatchable, low-carbon infrastructure that is necessary for long-term grid flexibility.
The development has been carried out through a collaboration between BLC Energy and Octopus Renewables Infrastructure Trust. It will involve a construction project northwest of Strathmiglo, in Perth and Kinross, whereby an estimated 60,000 solar panels will be incorporated to produce electricity of up to 39 MW and will also feature a battery energy storage system that will capture excess renewable energy production and feed it to the network.
Battery storage will enable the storage of excess energy generated by the use of solar energy and can only allow for discharging of this energy to the network when excess production of renewable energy decreases or at times when there is a need for extra power.
The project has secured a 2031 grid connection, when it is expected to begin exporting electricity to the National Grid. Construction is anticipated to take around six months, with BLC Energy stating that it intends to use local suppliers where possible during the delivery phase.
Beyond energy generation, the development includes environmental enhancements aimed at improving biodiversity. The approved plans include approximately 2.3 kilometres of new hedgerows and the planting of nearly 8,000 trees, measures intended to strengthen local habitats while reducing the visual impact of the development.
BLC Energy has also committed to a long-term community benefit package linked to the project's export capacity. The proposal includes a community benefit fund of £500 per megawatt of export capacity, equivalent to GBP 19,500 (~ $26132) annually throughout the project's expected 40-year operational life. The developer is also assessing a local electricity discount mechanism that could provide reduced energy bills for households located closest to the site.
The Binn Solar and BESS Farm forms part of BLC Energy's growing renewable energy portfolio in the UK. By pairing solar generation with battery energy storage and a secured grid connection, the project is intended to improve renewable energy utilisation, reduce renewable curtailment and provide dispatchable clean electricity that supports Scotland's energy transition and long-term grid resilience.