£500k community fund pledged in West Lothian battery storage project proposal

A PLANNING application for a battery energy storage system (BESS) in West Lothian promises a £500,000 community benefit fund.

The proposed BESS facility, which would be situated northwest of Bathgate Substation near Bathgate and Armadale, is designed to support the transition to renewable energy, comes from energy developer Galileo and will have a capacity of up to 49.9MW.

If approved, the project aims to store surplus electricity during low demand and release it back to the grid during high demand, enhancing energy efficiency and supporting the drive to net zero emissions.

Galileo has pledged the £500,000 fund to benefit Bathgate and Armadale communities over the project’s lifetime, focusing on health, physical activity, training, and education.

Senior project manager Laura Petrie emphasised the developer’s commitment to local engagement, saying: “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.”

She added that the project will also provide investment opportunities, create jobs, and boost local skills: “We look forward to continuing to engage with the council and local communities throughout the planning process.”

Galileo is encouraging feedback from individuals, groups, and organisations about the use of the community fund to ensure it aligns with local needs.

The company has also committed to involving local suppliers and contractors wherever possible during construction and operation.

Paul Hunter, chief executive of West Lothian Chamber of Commerce, praised the initiative, stating: “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.”

The development follows the launch of Galileo’s supplier portal, offering businesses the chance to register interest in supporting the project.

This initiative aligns with Galileo’s broader commitment to fostering local economic benefits while contributing to Scotland’s environmental goals.