ILI Group receives consent for 200 MW battery storage project in Scotland

Developer ILI Group has received planning consent from Scottish ministers for a significant 200MW battery energy storage system (BESS) project near Glasgow. The Whitehill BESS will be located adjacent to the Easterhouse substation, positioning it as critical infrastructure supporting Scotland’s renewable energy transition.

ILI Group CEO Mark Wilson emphasized the project’s importance, stating it “will provide essential grid balancing services and help maximize the potential of our renewable energy resources.” He noted the approval validates the “crucial role that battery storage will play” as Scotland continues expanding its wind and solar capacity.

With over 4.7GW of energy storage projects in its portfolio, ILI Group is a significant player in the UK market. The company’s assets include 2.5GW of utility-scale battery storage and 2.5GW of pumped hydro facilities. ILI recently submitted plans for a massive 1.5GW pumped storage project in Argyll and Bute, one of the most significant such new initiatives in the UK.

The Whitehill BESS represents a significant step forward for Scotland’s energy storage capabilities. The project received support from both Glasgow City Council and North Lanarkshire Council, aligning with the Scottish government’s climate and renewable energy goals.

As renewable power continues growing across the country, projects like the Whitehill BESS will provide the flexibility and stability required to integrate intermittent generation onto the grid. The 200MW facility can help balance supply and demand, enhancing the reliability of Scotland’s electricity network.

With this latest approval, ILI Group solidifies its position as a leading developer in the UK’s fast-growing energy storage sector. The Whitehill BESS adds to a flurry of large-scale battery and pumped hydro projects progressing through the planning system in Scotland, further cementing the country’s role as a hub for cutting-edge storage solutions.