Statera Energy powers up UK’s largest battery at 300 MW Thurrock Storage

Statera Energy has energized Thurrock Storage, the UK’s largest operational battery energy storage system (BESS).

Located north of the former Tilbury coal power station, the project has 300 MW of power capacity and a two-hour duration, equal to 600 MWh.

The battery is located alongside the 450 MW Thurrock Flexible Generation plant, which provides gas-powered backup when renewable output is low for extended periods. Statera said the site will also create local jobs and apprenticeships in operations and maintenance.

Earlier this year, the site suffered a fire during construction in a single containerized battery unit from an undisclosed battery supplier. The site was not energized at the time.

The Thurrock BESS will be one of the first to provide voltage services under a ten-year contract in the UK, having been a winner of a tender run by the National Energy System Operator (NESO). From October 2025 the BESS will provide reactive power absorption capability for the local area. It secured financial close in late 2024 as part of a $512 million deal.

“Battery storage plays a vital role in Britain’s clean energy transition. Connecting Thurrock Storage, the UK’s biggest battery, to our transmission network marks a significant step on that journey,” said John Twomey, Director of Customer and Network Development at National Grid Electricity Transmission (NGET).

Tom Vernon, Statera Energy’s CEO and Founder, said the project provides critical flexibility. “We are delighted that Thurrock Storage is now energized, following its successful connection to the grid by National Grid Electricity Transmission. Increasing BESS capacity is essential for supporting the grid.”

Statera has delivered or is building more than 2.1 GW of UK projects and reports 16 GW in development or consented. The company has invested £1 billion to date, with up to £7 billion planned by 2030.

Twomey noted the site’s legacy, with Tilbury once home to a coal plant. “With battery connections like this, it’s today helping to power a more sustainable future for the region and the country,” he said.