Apatura Secures Approval for 400 MW Battery Energy Storage Project in Scotland
Apatura, a clean energy storage specialist, has gained planning consent for a new 400 megawatt (MW) Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at Denny, near Plean, south of Stirling, Scotland. The 11.2-hectare development is an important step towards Apatura's ambition to improve the UK's energy grid and achieve net zero.
A Key Milestone in Apatura's Expansion
This latest project marks Apatura’s seventh BESS development to secure planning approval within the past 12 months, bringing the company’s total consented pipeline to 1.4 gigawatts (GW). The approval strengthens Apatura’s leadership in grid-scale battery storage, supporting Scotland’s growing renewable energy capacity and transition to net-zero.
Andrew Philpott, Chief Development Officer at Apatura, said, "We are delighted that Ministers have supported this critically important scheme and the local council – Stirling – lodged no objections."
He added, "Our focus on Scotland is central to our vision to harness its renewable energy potential. These latest approvals reinforce Scotland’s strategic advantage in delivering resilient energy infrastructure."
Backing Net Zero and Renewable Energy Targets
When in operation, the Denny BESS will be a significant contributor to Scotland meeting its ambitious renewable energy targets. Scottish Government has the target of generating 50% of Scotland's energy demand from renewable sources and decarbonising its energy system by 2050. These projects align with the UK Government policy to achieve Net Zero by 2050, as outlined in the Climate Change Act 2008 (2050 Target Amendment) Order 2019.
The Scottish Government Energy Consents Unit gave the approval for the Denny site on February 25, 2025. The project will include a battery storage facility and infrastructure for planting native tree species to boost biodiversity.
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Job Creation and Community Benefits
Apart from its environmental benefits, the project will bring considerable job opportunities in the area. Apatura anticipates direct jobs during construction, operation, and decommissioning phases, as well as other indirect job creation in the supply chain. The development also features a Community Benefit Fund, adding to the local economy.
Battery energy storage systems such as the one proposed for Denny are important to contemporary energy management. BESS will help store surplus energy during times of high generation and low demand, releasing energy back to the grid when there is peak demand.This helps stabilize the grid, supports the integration of renewable energy, and maintains the integrity of a clean, efficient power system.
The Scottish Ministers' Decision Letter praised the project's contribution to sustainable development, in particular as it can enhance grid resilience and minimize greenhouse gas emissions.The development will stabilize the cost of energy, lower bills for consumers, and improve energy security for the UK.
