Root-Power, a Manchester-based company, is making waves in the energy industry with its ambitious battery storage projects. Backed by the YLEM Group, they are unveiling an impressive strategy.
Boasting nearly 2GW worth of projects across the UK, Root-Power has already submitted plans for over 700MW and has another 850MW in development. Their target is to bring 150MW online in 2024/25 and rapidly expand soon after.
Introduction of Root-Power
Manchester-based Root-Power, supported by the YLEM Group, has initiated a major push into battery storage systems. Their pipeline includes nearly 2GW of projects across the UK.
This substantial effort has already seen over 700MW submitted for planning and an additional 850MW in the works. The company aims to bring 150MW online in 2024/25 and further expand to 1.5GW soon after.
Project Locations and Capacities
Root-Power has over 15 ongoing planning applications. Notably, two projects in Yorkshire and County Durham will add a combined 100MW of storage. Perth and Dounreay in Scotland will contribute 74MW to support the grid.
In Scotland, which produced more renewable electricity than it used in 2022, battery storage is vital for utilising surplus wind power. These projects show how Root-Power aids in integrating renewable energy into the UK’s grid.
Battery storage ensures grid stability by providing instant backup during surges in demand or drops in supply, preventing blackouts and brownouts.
Leadership and Expertise
Root-Power is led by Neil Brooks, who has over 10 years’ experience in the energy sector. He has managed more than 1GW of major projects in the UK, including onshore wind and battery storage.
Brooks was previously the Projects Director for YLEM Energy, helping develop its energy initiatives, and held roles at Forsa Energy and UK Power Reserve.
He says, “Despite being a new name, we’ve been preparing for this for years. Our team is the best in class.”
Strategic Direction and Future Plans
Neil Brooks emphasises leveraging YLEM Energy’s experience to quickly establish Root-Power as a leader. He highlights their in-house skills for developing, constructing, and maintaining assets to high standards.
Brooks states, “We have a unique blend of skills to maximise value and create growth opportunities.”
Root-Power’s strategy is seen as vital for supporting the grid during the UK’s transition to net-zero, offering essential support to renewable energy growth.
Industry Context and Battery Storage Role
With the shift to renewable energy, battery storage is the most adaptable asset for stabilising power generation fluctuations.
Root-Power’s projects align with the broader goal of integrating more renewables, crucial for reducing reliance on fossil fuels and enhancing energy security.
These initiatives help balance the grid, ensuring a steady power supply even when renewable sources are inconsistent.
Challenges and Opportunities
Launching such large-scale projects involves navigating complex regulatory and planning processes. Root-Power’s extensive experience positions them well to overcome these hurdles.
The company faces competition from other energy firms in the battery storage space, necessitating continuous innovation and strategic partnerships.
However, the growing demand for renewable energy and grid stability offers ample opportunities for Root-Power’s expansion and leadership in the sector.
Conclusion
Root-Power’s ambitious plans mark a significant step in the UK’s energy transition. Their extensive pipeline and skilled leadership position them as a key player in the battery storage industry.
By supporting renewable energy integration and grid stability, Root-Power is set to play a crucial role in achieving the UK’s net-zero goals.
Root-Power’s ambitious plans mark a significant step in the UK’s energy transition. Their extensive pipeline and skilled leadership position them as a key player in the battery storage industry.
By supporting renewable energy integration and grid stability, Root-Power is set to play a crucial role in achieving the UK’s net-zero goals.