This report examines the role grid-scale battery storage could play in providing a resilient, affordable electricity network. In line with Scotland’s Energy Strategy and Net Zero emission targets, it considers the period to 2030 and 2045, reviewing current practice and experience, and current expectations for further developments.

Grid-scale battery storage is likely to be an important part of the evolution of the electricity system in the UK, with capacity in Scotland estimated to rise to 1,800-2,700 MWh by 2030, and 6,800-10,500 MWh by 2045. This is driven by several factors, in particular, the growth of variable renewable energy (wind, solar) and decarbonisation by electrification of heat supply and transport. Battery system costs are also expected to fall further.

It finds that, in the Scottish context, battery storage is likely to be particularly useful in the longer term in supporting weaker parts of the electricity system, such as on islands and in more remote areas with a high proportion of renewables. Few issues have been encountered so far in obtaining development consent for battery projects, it notes, with proximity to an adequate grid connection the factor most influencing siting.