Independent energy developer Balance Power has received planning approval for a 29.9MW battery storage project in Coylton, East Ayrshire. The facility is designed to store renewable energy during peak generation and release it to the grid during high demand periods, supporting approximately 16,200 homes and enhancing the UK’s progress toward net zero.
Spanning 2.67 hectares, the project will comprise 18 battery units. It is expected to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by around 11,050 tonnes annually—the equivalent of taking 7,900 cars off the road or planting 17,700 trees.
Balance Power has also extended its community engagement by installing rooftop solar panels at the Ochiltree Community Hub. This initiative will provide a cleaner and more affordable power supply, aiding the center’s work in the local area.
The project gained approval from East Ayrshire Council following extensive consultation with local residents, the town council, and district councillors. Community feedback was incorporated to ensure the development aligns with local expectations and needs.
The battery storage site is scheduled to become operational by summer 2026. At the end of its lifecycle, the facility will be fully decommissioned, and the land will be restored to its original use and condition.
Oli Pettersen, Connections Manager at Balance Power, said “We are proud to have secured unanimous approval for this project from East Ayrshire Council and are grateful for the support we’ve received from local community throughout the process. As well as advancing local and national net zero goals, this battery storage site is set to make a positive impact on Coylton and the surrounding area, creating local construction and operation jobs and bolstering its energy security and reliability.
“We’re especially pleased to be supporting the Ochiltree Community Hub as part of our work in the area – it’s a targeted but impactful way that we can contribute to the incredible work being done there.”
Since 2017, Balance Power has been delivering decentralised energy projects across the UK, working with landowners, councils, and communities to advance national decarbonisation goals. The company has secured planning consent for 36 projects and is currently developing over 2GW of new energy infrastructure.
