Balance Power, a leading independent energy developer, has secured planning approval for a 49.5MW battery energy storage system (BESS) in Hinksford, South Staffordshire. The project is designed to enhance grid flexibility and support the UK’s drive toward net-zero emissions by storing renewable power and supplying it during peak demand periods.
Approved unanimously by South Staffordshire Council through a delegated decision, the project followed an extensive community consultation. Balance Power worked closely with local residents, the town council, and district councillors to address concerns and tailor the development to meet community needs.
The Hinksford facility will comprise 36 battery units spread across 2.59 hectares and is expected to power approximately 26,800 homes. It will also contribute significantly to carbon reduction, offsetting an estimated 18,300 tonnes of CO₂ annually—comparable to removing 13,200 cars from the road or planting 29,200 trees.
In a move to align clean energy development with environmental stewardship, the project includes a biodiversity enhancement plan, aiming for a 154.98% increase in habitat units and the protection of local wildlife.
“This project will be pivotal for balancing out the supply and demand of renewable energy as the UK transitions to net zero,” said Dan Levy, Planning Manager at Balance Power. “We’re grateful for the support from South Staffordshire Council and the local community – it’s due to our collective efforts and close collaboration that we’ve achieved this rewarding outcome.”
The energy storage site is scheduled to become operational by autumn 2026. Following its 40-year operational life, the facility will be decommissioned and the land restored to its original condition.
Balance Power, which has been advancing decentralised energy solutions since 2017, has already delivered planning consent for nearly 40 projects, adding 502MW of capacity to the grid. With a further 2GW of projects in development, the company continues to lead innovation in the UK’s renewable energy sector.
