Manchester’s Root-Power, backed by the YLEM Group, has stepped into the battery storage market with a bang. With nearly 2GW of battery storage projects already in place across the UK, the company is positioning itself as one of the biggest operators in the sector.
The launch signals a significant investment in battery energy storage systems, laying the groundwork for an ambitious future. Over 700MW of storage is awaiting approval, and another 850MW is in the pipeline. Root-Power’s goal is to bring 150MW online by 2024/25, with even more expansive plans in the works.
Root-Power’s Launch and Positioning
Manchester-based company, Root-Power, has entered the battery storage market. It is backed by the YLEM Group and already boasts nearly 2GW of battery storage projects across the UK.
Strategic Investments in Battery Storage
The company has made a significant investment in battery energy storage systems. More than 700MW of storage is awaiting planning approval, with another 850MW in the pipeline. Root-Power aims to bring 150MW online in 2024/25.
Additionally, 1.5GW of projects are set for rapid development in the coming years. The firm has over 15 planning applications in progress. Two proposals in Yorkshire and County Durham feature a combined 100MW of storage.
Focus on Developing Renewables
In Scotland, Root-Power is developing projects in Perth and Dounreay. These projects will bring 74MW online to support the grid. Scotland, which generated more renewable electricity than it used in 2022, benefits greatly from battery storage.
Battery storage helps utilise surplus energy from wind power. These projects demonstrate Root-Power’s ability to support renewable energy in the UK. Battery storage stabilises the national grid and prevents blackouts.
Experienced Leadership Team
Root-Power is led by experts from its sister company, YLEM Energy. The team has over 30 years of experience in the energy sector. This includes experience in reducing energy costs and supporting the electricity grid with gas peaking and battery storage sites.
Neil Brooks, the managing director, has over a decade of experience. He has developed and delivered over 1GW of major projects across the UK. Previously, he was the projects director for YLEM Energy, responsible for its energy projects.
Brooks commented on the launch, stating, “Despite being a new name, we’ve prepared for this day for several years. Our team is best in class. We have the platform and resources to quickly establish ourselves as leaders in battery storage.”
Future Goals and Strategic Direction
Root-Power plans to become a cornerstone of the UK’s transition to Net Zero. The company aims to provide essential support for the growth of renewable energy. They focus on stabilising the ebbs and flows of power generation with flexible battery systems.
Brooks added, “Drawing on YLEM Energy’s experience, we have the skills to develop, construct, operate, and maintain all our assets. This maximises their value and generates growth opportunities.”
Challenges and Advocacy
The benefits of battery storage systems are sometimes misunderstood. This can lead to delays in planning and operations. Root-Power is active in promoting the value of battery energy storage systems.
The company advocates for greater consumer awareness. They urge planning reforms to support the adoption of battery storage. This would help in the smooth transition to renewable energy.
Summary of Root-Power’s Capabilities
Root-Power aims to be a leader in battery storage. The company has a strong pipeline of projects across the UK. Their experienced team leverages their extensive knowledge to support the country’s energy transition.
Root-Power is set to be a major force in the UK’s energy sector. With nearly 2GW of battery storage projects, extensive expertise, and ambitious plans, the company aims to significantly support the transition to renewable energy.
Their focus on developing battery storage will help stabilise the national grid and prevent blackouts.
Root-Power’s strategic investments and experienced team position them as leaders in the battery storage market.