FAQs
Who is Enso Energy?
Enso Energy is one of the UK’s leading developers of renewable and low carbon energy projects. We are firm advocates for renewable, low carbon, efficient, secure and sustainable energy that can be generated, stored and utilised in the UK. Our approach to subsidy-free renewable energy is assisting the country’s move towards a more secure renewable energy supply.
Why have you chosen this site?
Why have you chosen this site?
The Site is located close to the Point of Connection at the National Grid Cellarhead Substation. It is also free of statutory designations relating to landscape, heritage and ecology.
What have you done so far?
We submitted an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Screening Request to Staffordshire Moorlands District Council, who confirmed the submission of an Environmental Statement would be required for any forthcoming application. Accordingly, an Environmental Statement is being prepared and will be submitted as part of the planning application. Currently there are ecology surveys, geophysical assessments, and acoustic surveys being completed at the Site.
How long will this take to build?
Construction of the proposal will take place over 12 months, with construction vehicles accessing the Site via Thorney Edge Road.
What will the BESS look like?
The BESS comprises a series of battery containers that are similar in appearance to shipping containers. These will be grouped together within a central compound area, along with a Substation that has the electrical infrastructure necessary to import and export the electricity to and from the National Grid Cellarhead Substation. The BESS will be surrounded by security fencing and acoustic fencing where required. Substantial areas of planting are proposed, along with areas dedicated to achieving Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG).
What are you doing about landscaping and ecology?
We are dedicating large areas of the Site to grassland, wildflower meadow, hedgerow, scrub and tree planting. Any hedgerows or trees that are lost during the construction phase will be replaced with additional compensation provided as part of the landscaping plan. Additional features to boost the ecological value of the site are being assessed.
Are batteries safe?
Batteries are equipped with Battery Management Systems that monitor the operational and fault status of all systems for all parameters required to ensure the safe operation of the Batteries. Two separate vehicle access points are included as part of the application for emergency vehicles. A standby water supply is included on site. Enso Energy is engaging in pre-application discussions with Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Services about the Proposed Development.
Are batteries noisy?
BESS facilities have the potential to generate noise, primarily from cooling fans needed to regulate temperatures of the battery cells. Detailed acoustic surveys have been completed and confirm that, with mitigation, there will be no adverse impact on nearby sensitive receptors.
Will the BESS be here permanently?
No. After 40 years the BESS would be decommissioned and the land returned to its current use.
Will there be lots of traffic when the site is commissioned?
When operational, engineers will visit the site once or twice a month to check the BESS is running optimally.