SSE has revealed the final investment decision (FID) for the Derrymeen battery energy storage system (BESS), a 100MW facility to be constructed in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland.
The BESS will support the country’s shift towards a renewable energy-powered electricity grid.
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The new Derrymeen facility will be situated next to the Tamnamore 275/110kV substation near Dungannon, providing 100MW of capacity and two hours of storage, which is equivalent to 200MWh.
The BESS will directly connect to the substation and take part in the all-island Integrated Single Electricity Market.
Upon being operational, the BESS will contribute to balancing the electricity grid by storing renewable power when generation is high and releasing it during periods of higher demand.
Construction is set to commence later in 2026 following initial activities such as detailed design and procurement of essential equipment, including the main grid transformer.
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By GlobalDataThese preparatory steps are already underway.
Grid connection activities will be managed in coordination with the System Operator for Northern Ireland and Northern Ireland Electricity Networks.
The project is also expected to create job opportunities during the construction phase, supporting up to 30 full-time jobs at peak delivery.
SSE Renewables director of projects onshore Ireland Heather Donald said: “Securing a final investment decision for Derrymeen marks another important milestone in our commitment to building a flexible and resilient energy system across the island of Ireland.
“Battery storage is essential to enabling a renewables-led electricity system, helping to store clean power when it is available and deliver it back to the grid when it is needed most. We are proud to be investing in Northern Ireland’s energy future, working closely with our partners and stakeholders to deliver a project that supports security of supply and the energy transition.”
After completing design refinements and consultations with the local council, the project has progressed to the FID stage.
Additionally, the BESS has been awarded a ten-year capacity remuneration market contract, set to begin in October 2028.
In August 2024, SSE commenced earthworks for the Aberarder wind farm, a significant renewable energy project in the Scottish Highlands.
