Global energy storage owner-operator BW ESS has started commercial operations for the first phase of its Hams Hall battery energy storage system (BESS) in the West Midlands. The milestone brings 350 MW/1243 MWh of storage capacity into commercial operation, the largest BESS by storage capacity (MWh) in Europe and a significant step forward in the delivery of infrastructure supporting the UK’s transition to a cleaner, more resilient energy system.
Located adjacent to National Grid’s Hams Hall substation, the project will help balance variable electricity demand and intermittent renewable generation, supporting greater integration of renewable energy while strengthening grid resilience and energy security.
The project reached commercial operation just 20 days after energisation. From commissioning and testing to operational readiness, BW ESS worked closely with partners including Sungrow, Energy-IO, National Grid, and NESO. Achieving this milestone safely and efficiently reflects the engineering expertise, rigorous preparation, and close co-ordination behind Hams Hall, as well as the technical capability and commitment of everyone involved.
Hams Hall’s capacity will increase to 400 MW/1424 MWh following completion of its second phase. At full capacity, the project will be capable of supporting the electricity needs of around 1.3 million homes for up to 3.5 hours, which is approximately equivalent to the number of households across Greater Manchester.
Erik Strømsø, CEO and Co-Founder of BW ESS, commented: “The start of commercial operations at Hams Hall is a landmark moment for BW ESS and a significant addition to Europe’s energy infrastructure. The project was built and commissioned on budget and ahead of schedule, which is a remarkable achievement for a system of this scale and complexity and a testament to the dedication and expertise of our team, and the commitment and collaboration of our partners.”
Long-term revenues for the project are underpinned by a 10-year floor and optimisation agreement with EDF and financing was recently secured from lenders OCBC, Rabobank, and Société Générale.
Hams Hall forms part of BW ESS’ 2.6 GWh Ardenham portfolio, co-owned with leading energy and decarbonisation investor AIP Management. Its entry into commercial operations expands BW ESS’ operating presence in the UK, alongside the 331 MWh Bramley BESS in Hampshire. The company also has 857 MWh under construction at Berkswell and a broader UK development pipeline spanning multiple gigawatt hours.
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