EDF, Trinasolar sign long‑term optimization deals for UK BESS portfolio

French energy company EDF has signed two long-term battery optimization agreements with Trinasolar International Solution Business Unit (ISBU), securing the operation of a pair of new grid-scale battery energy storage systems (BESS) in England and Scotland. 

The deal covers 179.8 MWh of capacity across the two projects, with EDF using its PowerShift platform, essentially the company’s algorithmic trading and optimization platform, to manage both assets. EDF stated that the long-term arrangement provides revenue certainty for Trinasolar ISBU. 

Two BESS assets are covered under the agreements, both designed with two-hour durations. The first is the 40 MW / 80 MWh Ruby BESS near Aberdeen in Scotland, which is on track to be fully operational by October 2026. The second is the 49.9 MW / 99.8 MWh Chatterley BESS, located in Gloucestershire, England. It is expected to reach commercial operation in March 2027. 

Stuart Fenner, commercial director of business and wholesale services at EDF, said flexible assets are becoming increasingly important as renewable generation grows. He added: “We’re pleased to be working with Trinasolar ISBU to optimize both projects and help unlock the flexibility needed to support Britain’s transition to a low-carbon, electrified energy system.”

Trinasolar’s biggest BESS market is the United Kingdom according to the company’s president Gonzalo de la Viña, who told pv magazine Italia in July that Italy was second behind the UK. 

“Following our acquisition of the Ruby and Chatterley projects, we are proud to be partnering with EDF as an important next step in maximizing their long‑term value. Through this collaboration, we can invest with confidence while ensuring the projects are operated effectively to deliver strong commercial outcomes and meaningful benefits for the wider energy system,” said Leonardo Lotti, head of EMEA at Trinasolar ISBU.