Flintshire, UK – April 9, 2025 – NatPower, a leading developer of renewable energy infrastructure, today announced the launch of a formal consultation regarding a proposed Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) near Northop, Flintshire. The Tyn Y Coed BESS represents a significant investment in the UK’s energy transition and is designed to play a crucial role in achieving the nation’s ambitious net-zero targets.
The proposed facility, situated on a 21-acre portion of a larger 48.6-acre site just off the A55, northeast of Northop and close to Ty’n Y Coed Farm, will boast a remarkable capacity of 500 megawatts. This substantial storage capacity is equivalent to powering approximately one million homes for a full day, highlighting the project’s potential to significantly impact the UK’s energy landscape.
The Tyn Y Coed BESS is strategically positioned to support the National Grid by providing a vital buffer for fluctuating renewable energy sources. When renewable energy generation exceeds demand, the system will store the excess power. Conversely, when demand spikes and renewable generation is low, the stored energy will be released, ensuring a stable and reliable electricity supply. This capability is increasingly critical as the UK continues to integrate more wind and solar power into its energy mix.
“Battery storage is no longer a ‘nice-to-have’ – it’s a fundamental necessity for a modern, resilient, and sustainable energy system,” stated a spokesperson for NatPower. “The Tyn Y Coed BESS will be a cornerstone of that system, providing crucial grid stability and enabling the full potential of renewable energy sources.”
The selection of the Tyn Y Coed site followed a rigorous assessment process, prioritizing locations with robust grid infrastructure connectivity and minimal environmental and heritage impact. NatPower’s team conducted extensive studies to ensure the site’s suitability and to identify potential mitigation measures for any unavoidable impacts.
The proposed facility will comprise hundreds of battery containers, alongside essential infrastructure including transformers, switchgear units, control rooms, and perimeter fencing. A new main access road will be constructed from the A5119, with a secondary emergency access point planned via Starkey Lane.
Recognizing the importance of minimizing environmental impact, NatPower has incorporated several key mitigation strategies into the project design. These include comprehensive landscaping measures, biodiversity net gains to enhance local ecosystems, and screening to reduce visual and noise impact on surrounding communities. The company is committed to working closely with local stakeholders to address any concerns and to ensure the project delivers tangible benefits for the region.
“We understand that large-scale infrastructure projects can raise concerns within local communities,” added the spokesperson. “That’s why we’re committed to transparency and engagement throughout the development process. We want to ensure that the Tyn Y Coed BESS is a valuable asset for Flintshire and contributes to a cleaner, more sustainable future for all.”
The project’s timeline anticipates construction commencing as early as 2028, with completion expected in 2030. Once operational, the facility will be managed remotely, requiring only occasional maintenance traffic.
While the majority of the site lies outside designated flood zones, areas adjacent to Northop Brook have been excluded from development to mitigate potential flood risk. A comprehensive suite of assessments, covering noise, ecology, heritage, and transport impacts, has been submitted as part of the draft planning documents. These assessments demonstrate the company’s commitment to minimizing environmental and social impacts.
NatPower has also confirmed that the site is not located within any air quality management area and has incorporated measures to avoid disruption to local biodiversity and public rights of way. The company’s commitment extends to ensuring the project aligns with both UK and Welsh Government initiatives aimed at achieving net-zero carbon targets by 2050 and decarbonizing energy networks by 2035.
Looking ahead, NatPower UK has ambitious plans to provide 20% of the UK’s required battery storage capacity by 2040, solidifying its position as a key player in the nation’s energy transition. The Tyn Y Coed BESS represents a significant step towards achieving this goal.
The formal consultation period is now open, and residents are invited to provide feedback until midnight on Friday, April 25, 2025. Detailed information about the project, including the draft planning documents, is available online. Residents can also provide feedback via phone, email, post, or an online questionnaire.
NatPower is confident that the Tyn Y Coed BESS will be a valuable asset for Flintshire and a significant contribution to the UK’s journey towards a sustainable energy future.
