Plans submitted for 85MW Rossendale battery storage scheme
Following a period of public consultation in November 2024, Cubico Sustainable Investments has submitted a planning application to Rossendale Borough Council for a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) on land at Rochdale Road and Bamford Road in Turn Village, Rossendale.
The proposed 85MW battery will play an important role in supporting the UK’s energy transition by making the most of the clean, homegrown energy generated by Scout Moor I wind farm.
By storing surplus energy when demand is low and discharging it when needed, the project will improve energy security, lower costs and reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels – all while helping to cut carbon emissions.
The new battery would connect to the existing Croston Close Road substation, using the infrastructure already in place for the existing Scout Moor I wind farm.
This means there will be no need for new overhead lines or substations, reducing disruption for residents and making the project more efficient and sustainable.
In addition to helping store and distribute clean energy, the project will also deliver significant environmental benefits.
The proposals include comprehensive landscape and biodiversity improvements, ensuring minimal visual impact and delivering a biodiversity net gain of approximately 28% through new planting, and ecological enhancements that will support local wildlife.
Joe Chambers, senior development manager at Cubico, said: “Battery storage is a vital part of the UK’s transition to clean energy, and this project will play a key role in that journey here in Rossendale and Rochdale.
“By storing electricity and releasing it when demand is higher, it will help balance the grid, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and ensure a stable, secure energy supply.
“At the same time, we’re committed to enhancing the environment around the project with significant biodiversity improvements that will leave a lasting and positive impact on the area.”
The project team comprises: Turley (planning), TEP (landscape and visual impact/ecology), TNEI (noise), Hydrock (multidisciplinary services).
