A major boost for Scotland’s renewable energy infrastructure has been announced with West Lothian Council's Development Management Committee unanimously granting planning permission for a 49.9MW Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) by Galileo Empower. Located at Middlerigg Farm, between Bathgate and Armadale and adjacent to the A801, this project marks Galileo Empower's inaugural consent in Scotland.

Battery Energy Storage Systems are crucial technologies supporting the transition away from fossil fuels towards clean, green, renewable electricity, which is inherently intermittent. This new facility will play a vital role in balancing the energy grid by storing surplus electricity during periods of low demand and releasing it back into the network when demand is high. This functionality maximises the use of renewable energy, directly addressing climate change and accelerating the drive towards Scotland’s net-zero targets.

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Beyond its environmental benefits, the Middlerigg BESS is expected to deliver greater energy security for consumers by reducing reliance on volatile, imported fossil fuels, thereby facilitating the supply of homegrown, more affordable, and low-carbon electricity.

Galileo Empower has committed to ensuring the project brings positive economic and social value to the local community. Plans include a community benefit fund, focusing on two key priorities: health/physical activity, and training/education. The company has also pledged to utilise local suppliers and contractors wherever reasonably possible throughout the construction and operation phases of the facility.

Laura Petrie, project manager for Galileo Empower, expressed delight at the decision. "We are delighted to have received unanimous consent for a battery storage facility at Middlerigg, our first consent in Scotland, which followed extensive engagement with local communities," she said.

Ms Petrie emphasised the broader impact: "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. We are confident that this project will bring considerable economic and environmental benefits to West Lothian. In addition to a community benefit fund, 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 as we progress the consented project."