Aggreko has supplied a comprehensive load bank and generator package to support the commissioning of a 500 MW Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at Europe’s largest battery farm. Situated in Coalburn, South Lanarkshire, Scotland, this site is part of a broader initiative to stabilise the UK’s electricity grid by effectively storing and releasing surplus renewable energy.
Collaborating with the main contractor, H&MV Engineering, Aggreko’s load bank package allowed for precise electrical load simulation, crucial for testing the system under real-world conditions. The deployment included a Stage V generator power package, powered by hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) biofuel, ensuring an uninterrupted power supply and efficient load management throughout the commissioning phase. This integrated solution enabled the BESS site to meet stringent performance and safety standards, facilitating a smooth transition to full operational status with minimal risk and downtime.
The tailored package featured a 5 MW load bank and 5 MW generator at 33 kV, alongside a 150 kVA LV generator, HV/LV cabling, and ancillary equipment. Aggreko’s on-site engineering team handled installation, commissioning, and ongoing support. Hugh Prentice, Senior Project Manager at H&MV Engineering, emphasised Aggreko’s critical role in the site’s successful commissioning, highlighting their ability to simulate electrical loads and provide a reliable power supply.
The project’s logistical challenges, such as limited space for equipment installation and the need for effective repositioning across multiple battery blocks, were adeptly managed by Aggreko. A dedicated onsite engineer oversaw operations, ensuring equipment performance and addressing technical issues promptly.
Craig Fleming, Utilities Sector Sales Manager at Aggreko, pointed out the significance of their expertise in delivering large-scale HV power solutions, focusing on safety, reliability, efficiency, and environmental responsibility. The use of HVO-powered Stage V generators was aligned with the site’s sustainability goals, reducing emissions during the commissioning phase.
The Coalburn facility, developed by Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP), is set to reach full capacity in 2026. Once operational, it will supply electricity to approximately 184,000 homes annually, offsetting 103,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions, thereby contributing significantly to the UK’s net zero targets. Aggreko has released a case study video detailing its role in the BESS site’s commissioning, available for further insights.
