A planning application has been submitted to West Lothian Council for a new battery energy storage system (BESS) near Bathgate. The project, proposed by renewable energy developer Galileo, aims to support the transition to a greener energy future.

If approved, the BESS will store excess renewable energy and release it back into the grid when demand is high, helping to balance the network and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

A key aspect of the project is a proposed £500,000 community benefit fund, which will be distributed to local communities in Armadale and Bathgate. The fund is expected to focus on health and physical activity, as well as training and education initiatives.

Galileo is encouraging local residents, groups, and organisations to provide feedback on how the community benefit fund could be best utilised. The company is also committed to using local suppliers and contractors for the construction and operation of the BESS.

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Speaking after the submission of the planning application, Laura said: "We are delighted to be submitting this planning application for our battery storage facility at Middlerigg, which follows extensive engagement with local communities.

"Infrastructure such as this has a vital part to play as we move away from polluting fossil fuels to clean green renewable energy, playing a critical role in tackling climate change and supporting Scotland to achieve its net-zero target.

"As with all our projects, we’ve made sure to work closely with local communities throughout the planning process and are confident that this project will bring considerable economic and environmental benefits to West Lothian.

"Our community benefit fund, for example, amounts to £500,000, and we are keen to get a greater understanding of that this could be used for. The development will also deliver considerable investment, creating jobs and boosting the skills of our current and future workforce.

"We look forward to continuing to engage with the Council and local communities throughout the planning process."

Paul Hunter, Chief Executive of West Lothian Chamber of Commerce, commented: "Renewable energy developments such as this have the potential to deliver considerable investment, creating local jobs, boosting the skills of our current and future workforce and deliver sustainable economic growth.

"We are pleased to note Galileo’s commitment to prioritising the use of local suppliers and contractors in all aspects of the battery storage development. If the development is approved, we look forward to continuing to work with the company to maximise the opportunities available in the local supply chain."