ENERGY STORAGE PROJECTS

This is a frequently asked question and from the many network studies we have completed, generally we have found that the following capacities are able to be connected:

• 11kV – no more than 3MW
• 33kV – no more than 20MW
• 66kV – no more than 50MW
• 132kV – no more than 100MW

Assuming there is network capacity in terms of import for charging and export for your energy storage facility, the next most significant consideration is voltage step change.  National policy (Engineering Recommendation P28) limits the acceptable step change to 3%.  This parameter together with ramp rate, is often the factor that limits the capacity of connection we are able to offer you. 

We continue to receive a significant number of applications for energy storage and find that often the following information either missing or incorrect.  Apply now using our Energy Storage System Application form.

 To avoid your quotation been delayed please ensure you provide the following:

• Site plan to an appropriate scale, showing the substation position and access
• Information on the operating regime - i.e. time to step from full import to full export
• Ramp rates
• Type of connection arrangement (Firm or Unfirm)
• Operation and management information if the battery and other generation is to be combined
• Single line diagram/schematic diagram
• Electrical characteristics of the proposed plant - i.e. impedance values, fault contribution

When considering the location of your project, please refer to our demand and generation availability maps. These maps provide an indication of the capacity of the distribution system to connect demand and generation. As an energy storage project is both a demand and generation scheme, these maps are useful tools to give a feel for the available network capacity for both the  import and export mode of operation. If your mode of operation requires more capacity than is available, the cost of the network reinforcement and the timescale for its completion could impact on the feasibility of  your project; unless you're able to operate within the available capacity. Our Long Term Development Statement (LTDS) contains network information such as design policies, schematic diagrams and up-to-date technical data. The LTDS is published each year to help existing and future users of the Northern Powergrid system assess the opportunities available for development projects.