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Centrica has announced plans to develop a 28MW battery on the site of a former gas-fired power plant in North Yorkshire, as part of its ambitions to turn the site into a green energy hub.
The British Gas-owner has acquired the four-acre former Knapton Generating Station from Third Energy for an undisclosed sum.
Gas production at Knapton ended in 2019 and the site has been cleared of all gas processing equipment, as well as the gas turbine. Third Energy meanwhile will retain the ownership of the 12 well-sites and associated gas pipeline network.
Centrica said it is exploring how the site could be used for off-grid hydrogen production, as well as the possibility for solar energy in the surrounding area.
The company said the battery has the capability to output 56MWh of power and that it will utilise some of the 41.5MW export capability of the existing grid connection. It is anticipated the battery would be able to power around 14,000 homes for two hours.
The multi-million pound deal is part of Centrica Business Solutions’ strategic plan to create a 900MW portfolio of solar and battery assets by 2026.
Greg McKenna, managing director of Centrica Business Solutions, said: “Taking an old fossil fuel asset and revitalising it to help advance the decarbonisation of the grid not only feels the right thing to do from a sustainability point of view, but aligns with our strategy.
“We’re quickly acquiring a portfolio of assets that can play an important role in facilitating a net zero future for the UK.”
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