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Plans for energy storage site submitted

Nadia Lincoln
Local Democracy Reporting Service
Elmya RPC An artist interpretation of white battery storage systems in a row. They all have an orange lightening bolt sign on the front, and are standing on concrete with trees behind them. Elmya RPC
Elmya RPC has outlined proposals to build a battery energy storage system in a Northamptonshire village

Plans have been put forward for a battery energy storage system that will power hundreds of thousands of homes, according to the applicant.

Elmya RPC has outlined proposals to build the system near Braybrooke, in Northamptonshire, to power about 137,000 homes.

Residents who would live near the potential facility were invited to a consultation at the village hall on Thursday.

According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, James Innes, head of project development, said: "The Desborough BESS project represents an essential step towards decarbonising the economy while ensuring greater energy security for the local community."

A battery energy storage system (BESS) stores excess energy from a mixture of sources, created during strong winds, bright sun, or periods of low demand.

It can then release the energy when demand is high and ensure a stable and continuous supply, even when renewable sources are unavailable or low.

Elmya RPC A map of the proposed site has been laid out, with red markings that go around certain fields where the battery storage system would be. There is a railway line, and a road, on the map. Elmya RPC
The applicant said the site will play a crucial role in enhancing energy security and reducing long-term energy costs

The facility would be located directly above the railway line near Harborough Road, between Braybrooke and Market Harborough.

According to the developers, the greenfield site was "strategically situated" next to an existing National Grid substation.

They added that, once connected, the BESS would support North Northamptonshire Council's goal of reaching net zero by 2050, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS).

An empty field near the planned site will become a separate BESS, under Aura Power, that will power up to 400,000 homes.

The consultation period finishes on 22 April, with the community encouraged to share their feedback on the project.

Mr Innes added: "We're eager to hear from residents and businesses in across Desborough and wider North Northamptonshire to ensure these proposals reflect their priorities and deliver tangible benefits for the region."

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