RE Projects Development Ltd (REPD), in partnership with Field, is inviting members of the local community and interested stakeholders to attend the first in a series of public consultation events regarding the proposed development of a battery energy storage system (BESS) and associated infrastructure on land south of Kintore Substation.
Proposed plans for the South Kintore BESS are being brought forward by UK-based renewable and low carbon energy project developer, REPD, who develops BESS projects across the UK.
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REPD is holding the first of two public consultation events next Tuesday 8 October 2024 at Kintore Bowling Club.
The session will run from 3pm to 7.30pm and will provide an opportunity for members of the public to learn more about the project and share their views. A second consultation event is planned for early November with details to follow.
The proposed BESS development aligns with the Scottish Government’s target to reach net zero by 2045 and aims to significantly enhance grid infrastructure by 2030, bolstering a more sustainable energy grid. This system will store renewable energy, releasing it during peak demand to ensure a stable and reliable energy supply. When operational, BESS infrastructure can be mobilised instantly to help maintain relevant frequency on the National Grid.
South Kintore BESS is being proposed on land that is occasionally used for grazing, in rotation with other fields. It will have a capacity of 200 megawatts (MW) with a secured grid connection, ensuring its feasibility.
Its proximity to the existing grid network enables efficient connectivity and its location near areas of high energy demand allows it to provide critical services like grid balancing, peaking capacity, and improving network resilience during extreme weather events.
REPD encourages residents, local businesses, and other stakeholders to attend and participate in this consultation process. All community feedback will be considered before a formal planning application is submitted.
Simeon Batov, Executive Director, REPD, commented: “We are committed to engaging with the Kintore community and ensuring that local voices are heard throughout this process.
“This project represents an important step in the transition to a cleaner energy future. We want to work closely with local residents to ensure our proposals do not present them with any unnecessary challenges during the construction phase and operation and, similarly, that any initial concerns are raised and, where possible, addressed.”
An initial design is being devised and an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Screening Opinion was submitted in September 2024. A full submission will be made to the Scottish Minister’s Energy Consents Unit (ECU) in early 2025.
In addition to the in-person consultation, further information about the proposed development is available online at www.southkintorebess.co.uk. Feedback can also be submitted by email to [email protected].
REPD asks for comments to be submitted by Friday the 29 November 2024 so they can be taken into consideration before submission of the application.