Ørsted, the global leader in offshore wind energy, has completed the construction of its first large-scale UK battery energy storage system (BESS), marking the latest milestone on the path to the facility becoming fully operational.

Construction Complete on the First Large-Scale UK BESS

The system, known as Iceni after the Norfolk-based warrior tribe of the Roman era, is located near Norwich, Norfolk, alongside the onshore converter station for Ørsted's Hornsea 3 Offshore Wind Farm.

When completed, the battery energy storage system will be one of the largest in Europe.

170 Megapacks with Bus-Length Dimensions

There are now 170 megapacks in place at the site. Each is the length of a classic Routemaster London bus but weighs the same as five buses. The system will have a capacity of 600 MWh and a 300 MW power rating, equivalent to the daily power consumption of 80,000 UK homes.

A First-of-its-Kind Split Layout

The Iceni team comprises specialists from Ørsted, Hitachi Energy, Knights Brown, and Tesla working together on this first-of-its-kind project. What makes the BESS unique is the split layout of the site, with two areas separated by the Hornsea 3 Onshore Converter station and linked by 18 33 kV cables, each over 600 meters in length. In addition, the shared grid connection point with Hornsea 3 has added technical complexity over a stand-alone connection point to the National Grid.

Final Installation and Commissioning Underway

The project is now in the final stages of mechanical and electrical installation, with the 33kV cross-site cables currently being installed and terminated. The first stage of commissioning and testing is well underway, and preparations are being made for energisation of the BESS Transformer.

Industry Voices on the Milestone

Beatrice d'Eufemia, Project Manager for Iceni BESS at Ørsted, said it was a milestone moment for Ørsted that construction was now complete on the company's first large-scale battery energy storage system in the UK.

"The system will make the best use of renewable energy produced in the UK, as when electricity generation exceeds demand, the excess can be stored and then used when demand is greater, helping balance the grid and lower electricity costs for everyone," she said.

Richard Swann, Construction Manager for Iceni BESS at Ørsted, said, "It's a real testament to the hard work, dedication, and cooperation of the team from many different organizations that the construction has been completed successfully."

David Shillabeer, Head of Transmission & Distribution at Knights Brown, described reaching the milestone as a significant achievement for everyone involved. "Delivering a battery energy storage system of this scale has required close collaboration between Ørsted, Knights Brown, and the many other organizations that have contributed to its success," he said.

"Beyond the engineering, the scheme has enabled us to invest in local people, develop skills and create opportunities across Norfolk and the wider region. We are proud to have played our part in an important project that will support the UK's transition to a more resilient, low-carbon energy system, while leaving a positive legacy for the communities in which we work."

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