NatPower unveils UK’s largest battery storage hub

A Teesside energy project is set to transform the region’s clean power capabilities and strengthen the UK’s industrial resilience.

NatPower UK has unveiled plans for a £1 billion privately-funded battery storage facility at Sembcorp Utilities’ Wilton International site, near Redcar. 

Known as the Teesside GigaPark, bosses say the project will deliver a 1GW/8GWh system, making it one of the UK’s largest and most advanced long-duration battery storage sites.

They add the GigaPark will initially operate with four hours of storage capacity (4GWh), with the option to double to eight hours, significantly surpassing the typical one to two hours offered by most UK battery developments. 

It will store excess renewable power from sources such as offshore wind and release it back to the grid during times of high demand.

Stefano D.M. Sommadossi, chief executive of NatPower UK and NatPower Marine, said: “Teesside, our most advanced GigaPark, will be the blueprint for how we combine high-capacity renewable energy storage with the electrification of ports and industry. 

“Within five years, we can transform one of the UK's most important industrial hubs into a net-zero economic powerhouse and then replicate this model in ports across the globe.”

Mike Patrick, chief executive of Sembcorp Energy UK, added: “We are pleased to support NatPower to bring one of the UK’s most advanced battery energy storage projects to Wilton International. 

“This project further strengthens Wilton International’s role as a site for low-carbon innovation, driving the UK’s journey towards a net-zero future.”

Stefano D.M. Sommadossi, left, and Mike Patrick

Construction is expected to support around 200 jobs, with further skilled roles once operational, alongside a £2 million annual commitment to a community fund. 

The project also has the potential to support training programmes with local colleges and partnerships with universities in areas such as smart grids and offshore wind.

From 2028, it could provide shore power to ships at berth, cutting portside emissions and opening the door to cleaner coastal shipping.

Energy minister Michael Shanks added: “Energy storage is a pillar of a clean power system – helping to protect homes and businesses from future energy price shocks by stocking up on homegrown renewable energy at times of high generation to release it when needed, instead of relying on fossil fuels.

“It is projects like this that will help us decarbonise our industries, as clean energy will be used to charge ships in one of Europe's biggest ports, helping to cut emissions, create skilled jobs and boost local investment.”

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