UK-based infrastructure developer Carlton Power has received planning consent from Trafford Council to build a 1GW/2.08 gigawatt-hour battery energy storage scheme (BESS) in Greater Manchester in the UK.
To be situated at Carlton Power’s Trafford Low Carbon Energy Park in Greater Manchester, the project entails an investment of £750m ($963.6m).
Upon completion, it is expected to become the largest BESS in the world, offering energy security in the north-west of England.
The Manchester BESS is subject to a final investment decision, with the developer currently in advanced discussions with companies for funding, constructing and operating the project.
Construction of the project is anticipated to start in the first quarter of next year, with commercial operations expected from the last quarter of 2025.
Carlton Power founder and CEO Keith Clarke said: “Carlton Power acquired the former coal-fired power station in 2008 to redevelop the site for new energy projects. With the approval of the BESS, this brings the total investment value of the site to £2bn, which will deliver significant economic benefits to the Greater Manchester region and help to deliver the regional net-zero targets.
“The investment in the Trafford Low Carbon Energy Park over the next 2–5 years demonstrates Carlton’s long-term vision and commitment to re-energising the Trafford site.”
Trafford Low Carbon Energy Park consists of multiple renewable projects co-located at the site.
These include Carlton Power’s green hydrogen facility and a liquid air energy storage plant being built by Highview Power Storage.
Trafford Council leader and Greater Manchester Green City-Region leader Tom Ross said: “The Trafford BESS, alongside the Trafford Green Hydrogen scheme, places Trafford and Greater Manchester at the forefront of the UK’s energy transition.
"The two schemes will help address our climate crisis – one of Trafford Council’s corporate priorities – and will support our region’s plan to reach a target of net-zero carbon emissions by 2038.”
