Project Spotlight
Zenobē
2 projects totalling 500 MW / 1 GWh
Powering a future of renewable energy
Energy storage projects improving the grid’s reliability in the UK
With the UK targeting 100% greenhouse gas emission reductions by 2050, integrating energy storage technologies with the grid for more efficient and flexible energy dispatchability has become a major priority.
The 200 MW / 400 MWh and 300 MW / 600 MWh energy storage systems (ESS) will deliver stability services using transmission-connected batteries, which will support the UK’s transition to a zero-carbon energy network by preparing the grid for an increased supply of renewables. The systems will provide important stabilisation for the grid, which has traditionally been supplied by fossil fuel-powered generators.
Main Data
| Customer | Zenobē |
| Site size | 200 MW / 400 MWh 300 MW / 600 MWh |
| Site locations | Scotland, United Kingdom |
| Applications | Renewables+ |
| Scope of services | Engineered Equipment Delivery (EEQ) |
| Delivery | 2024-2025 |
Reliability coupled with innovation
Improving long-term grid stability
The energy storage systems will be be delivered under National Grid’s NOA Stability Pathfinder Programme to improve the long-term stability of the electricity system. Owned by Zenobē, the systems will assist grid operators in the management of challenges related to balancing supply and demand, power stability and constraints.
The systems will provide stability services to the National Grid Electricity System Operator, including short-circuit level and true synthetic inertia, which are essential for the grid to function efficiently as fossil fuel plants phase out.
The Blackhillock project is built with Wärtsilä’s Quantum, a fully-integrated, modular and compact ESS. Kilmarnock South is the first project to be delivered with Quantum High Energy, a next-generation energy storage system with advanced safety features and enhanced energy density. The systems are robustly supported with Wärtsilä’s sophisticated software that can monitor facilities in real-time.
The GEMS Digital Energy Platform will manage the complete energy storage systems. The software will ease network constraints by importing electricity at times of peak renewable generation. GEMS’ data-based intelligence will enable Zenobē to participate in the most valuable UK electricity markets.
Challenge
Wärtsilä's Solution
Benefit
Allow for integration of nearby offshore wind energy projects with the UK grid.
Provide short-circuit level and true synthetic inertia to the National Grid Electricity System Operator.
Facilitate the UK’s transition to net-zero by enabling more wind power onto the transmission network.
Provide stability services as the UK phases out fossil fuel plants.
Deliver inverter technology that pushes the technical boundaries of the type of support that batteries can provide to the grid.
Improve the long-term stability and reliability of the electricity grid.
Meet network demand and customer cost expectations.
Supply Wärtsilä’s energy storage management software including the GEMS Fleet Direct and Power Plant Controller to optimise operations, while easing network constraints by importing electricity at times of peak renewable generation.
Support the UK’s energy independence and lower consumer energy bills.