Root-Power Secures Approval for 100MW Battery Storage in Leicestershire

Root-Power, a UK-based battery energy storage system company, has received planning approval to construct a 100-megawatt (MW) energy storage facility in Leicestershire, following a successful appeal. The project represents a significant £45 million investment in the region’s energy infrastructure and supports the transition towards cleaner energy sources.

Located near Kegworth,on the banks of the River Soar,the facility is designed to connect directly to the local power grid. Its development is strategically aligned wiht the planned decommissioning of the Ratcliffe-on-Soar coal-fired power station and the broader ambition to establish the area as a clean energy hub.

Recognizing the site’s proximity to a waterway, Root-Power, operating as part of the YLEM Group, proactively engaged with the Environment Agency and local flood protection authorities during the planning phase. This collaborative approach resulted in a design that mitigates potential flood risks. Key features include elevating the battery storage units above ground level to allow for unimpeded floodwater passage and incorporating sunken storage tanks to enhance overall flood storage capacity.

Neil Brooks, General Manager of Root-Power, emphasized the company’s commitment to responsible development. “We have meticulously addressed flood hazards through innovative design solutions,” he stated. “furthermore, we are dedicated to achieving a net gain in biodiversity through landscape optimization, actively protecting and enhancing the local ecological environment.”

This project underscores the growing importance of battery energy storage systems in the UK’s energy transition, providing crucial grid stability and enabling greater integration of renewable energy sources. The Leicestershire facility will contribute to a more resilient and sustainable energy future for the region.