Phoenix's Paisley Battery Energy Storage System moves closer to delivery

Phoenix Sustainable Investments has reached another significant milestone in the development of its 49.9MW Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project in Paisley, Scotland, as the scheme continues to move towards construction.

Located on a former fossil fuel storage site, the 49.9MW development will transform brownfield land into renewable energy infrastructure, demonstrating how previously developed sites can be repurposed to support the UK's transition to a lower-carbon energy system.

Working alongside development partner Ikigai Energy, and with the scheme now moving towards ready-to-build status, Phoenix is approaching the market to identify the right investor to build, own and operate the asset through its next phase. Construction is currently anticipated to begin during the first quarter of 2027, with the project expected to become operational in summer 2028.

The project has benefited from significant progress over the past year, including updated planning permission and grid connection approvals. It also benefits from a 33kV distribution network connection and Gate 2 Phase 1 approval, with a revised BESS design capable of supporting up to four hours of energy storage.

Battery Energy Storage Systems are becoming an increasingly important part of the UK's energy infrastructure, helping to store surplus renewable electricity and release it when demand is highest or when the grid requires ancillary services to operate efficiently.

By improving flexibility across the electricity network, schemes such as Paisley will help increase the integration of renewable energy generation while supporting a more resilient and reliable grid.

One of the most distinctive aspects of the project is its location.

The development will retain the historic frame of No. 4 Gasholder, built in 1890 and recognised as the oldest cast-iron column gasholder in Scotland. The structure is Grade A listed due to its national industrial significance and forms an important part of Scotland's engineering heritage.

Phoenix is working closely with conservation specialists, Historic Environment Scotland and Renfrewshire Council to ensure the project carefully balances renewable energy delivery with the preservation of this important historic asset.

Karl Hick, CEO of Phoenix Sustainable Investments, said: "The Paisley project demonstrates our commitment to delivering positive, smart and innovative energy infrastructure. It showcases how brownfield land can be regenerated to support the UK's clean energy transition while respecting and preserving an important part of Scotland's industrial heritage. We're pleased to see the project continuing to move towards delivery and look forward to working with our partners as it progresses."

Roberto Castiglioni, CEO of Ikigai, commented: "Paisley BESS is exactly the kind of project we are proud to support. There is something romantic about a site that once stored gas for Scotland's energy system now being repurposed to store electricity for a cleaner, more flexible grid. The purpose endures, but the means evolve. For us, that captures the essence of the energy transition."

Story by Phoenix Strategic Land