Fotowatio Renewable Ventures (FRV), part of Abdul Latif Jameel Energy, and UK-based Harmony Energy have energised the 99MW/198 megawatt-hour (MWh) Clay Tye battery energy storage system (BESS) in Essex, UK.
One of the largest operational projects of its kind in Europe, the system can power 300,000 homes for two hours.
The Clay Tye site is equipped with 52 Tesla Megapack Li-ion batteries and Tesla’s Autobidder AI software.
This technology enables the sharing of energy capacity and enhances project management.
The batteries are connected to the UK Power Networks distribution network, allowing for the storage of renewable energy and providing flexibility during peak demand times.
FRV chief innovation officer Felipe Hernández stated: “Clay Tye is an important milestone in our ambition to grow in the UK energy storage market. This BESS reinforces the long-term sustainability of our business model and our market leadership position.
“FRV continues to move forward on the path of future assets in the country that are currently in commercial operation, construction and development.”
Clay Tye follows the successful launch of other FRV and Harmony Energy storage projects including the Contego in West Sussex, UK, with 34MW/68MWh of capacity, and Holes Bay with 7.5MW/15MWh of capacity.
FRV reached financial close for the Clay Tye and Contego projects in January 2023.
The company secured a financing package of £61m ($76.79m) from Natixis CIB UK, covering 60% of the total project costs. It also obtained debt service reserve facilities and a VAT facility.
