Energy Storage Project Appeal Rejected Over Environmental Concerns

Plans for a large battery energy storage system (BESS) near the Devon-Dorset border have been dismissed following an appeal, with environmental concerns cited as the primary reason for the rejection. The inspector determined that the potential risks of polluting the local water environment were "very substantial, overriding, [and] unacceptable."

The appeal was lodged after the initial plans were rejected by East Devon. Proponents of the project had argued that the benefits of the scheme, which included contributing to the UK's net-zero aspirations by storing energy, would outweigh the moderate harm to the Dorset National Landscape. However, the inspector found these benefits insufficient to overcome the significant environmental risks.

A key point of contention during the appeal process involved the potential for hazardous materials released from the batteries, such as lithium-ion, to contaminate groundwater. Campaign groups, including the Devon branch of the Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) and the Hawkchurch and Monkton Wyld Action Group, expressed relief at the decision. They have long highlighted the risks associated with such hazardous materials and their potential impact on groundwater.

During the appeal, revised plans were submitted that included an increase in the size and relocation of water tanks, alterations to the separation distances between containers, and other modifications. The appellant had suggested it would take approximately eight years for any water used to fight a hypothetical fire at the BESS to reach drinking water sources. However, the inspector stated there was "insufficient evidence" to support this claim.

Battery energy storage systems are designed to store electricity when supply exceeds demand and release it when needed. The UK government has noted their importance in facilitating the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources as part of its net-zero targets.