Arup supports Northern Ireland Water complete large-scale battery energy storage system project

The 4.1 MW battery is powered by an existing solar farm at one of NI Water’s largest water treatment plants, Dunore Point, Antrim.

The battery boasts a 5.6 MWh (megawatt hour) total capacity which helps to store surplus energy generated onsite from c.24,000 solar panels. During periods of lower electricity demand, NI Water can store this renewable energy to use later during peak times. The BESS will also engage in services to help balance supply and demand on the local grid providing improved site resilience and security of water supply. Increased use of renewable energy will contribute to mitigating the effects of climate change.

Together with GRAHAM, Arup provided technical advice and developed techno-economic modelling, planning / NIE-N connection applications, and were NEC Project Manager and Supervisor during the construction stage of the project.

Submarket

Energy storage

The battery will provide power back to the grid when required, helping to support grid stability and provide greater resilience in the network to benefit Northern Ireland’s society and economy, in addition to facilitating opportunities to harness further renewable technology and market participation in the future.

PJ McCaffery, Contracts Director at GRAHAM said “We are delighted to have delivered this project for our long-standing client NI Water, supporting their sustainable goals of becoming more energy efficient through innovative energy projects. Collaborating closely with ARUP, NI Water, Scotts Electrical from our supply chain and NIEN, we have once again demonstrated our commitment to enhancing NI Water’s use of Green Energy and reduced carbon footprint which is essential for NI Water serving the communities of Northern Ireland. We aim to deliver a lasting impact on all our projects, by transforming and improving the built environment for the communities we serve. This project is a fantastic example of innovation and our expertise in the water sector, and we look forward to continuing our relationship with NI Water on future projects."