News Synopsis
Fidra Energy has reached financial close for its West Burton C Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), a 500 MW/1.1 GWh project in Nottinghamshire, marking another milestone in the company's expanding UK energy storage portfolio. The project represents an investment of approximately GBP 250 million (~ $336.30 million), supported by GBP 231 million in loan facilities from consortium of international lenders alongside previously committed capital from EIG and the National Wealth Fund.
Located on the site of the former West Burton coal-fired power station, the project repurposes existing energy infrastructure while contributing to the UK's transition toward a more flexible electricity system. The facility is also situated adjacent to the planned location of the UK's first prototype fusion energy plant reinforcing the site's strategic role in the country's future energy landscape.
Construction is scheduled to begin later in 2026 with the battery storage facility expected to become fully operational in 2028. Once commissioned, the West Burton C is expected to supply enough stored electricity to serve approximately 300,000 homes during periods of peak demand by supporting grid stability as renewable generation continues to expand.
The financing package consists of a term loan and ancillary facilities arranged through a club of international lenders. Nomura Greentech and EIG acted as financial advisers for the debt financing process.
For project delivery, Sungrow will provide the battery energy storage systems, while H&MV Engineering has been appointed as the principal designer and contractor responsible for the 400 kV grid connection, electrical infrastructure, installation and commissioning works.
The commercial framework for the project has also been strengthened through a long-term agreement with Drax Group, which will manage 50% of the project's storage capacity under an offtake arrangement. Additionally, the project secured 15-year UK Capacity Market contract beginning in October 2028 providing long-term revenue certainty.
The West Burton C project marks the expansion of Fidra Energy’s UK battery storage pipeline above 4 GW and comes after several other developments within the company’s portfolio, such as the construction of the Thorpe Marsh BESS, purchase of the 1 GW Enderby BESS project, and obtaining planning consent for the 1.2 GW Bicker Fen project.
This battery project is in line with the UK Government’s “Clean Power 2030” Action Plan aimed at the development of 22-27 GW of installed short-duration battery storage capacity by 2030.