An initial round of consultation took place in September 2025, and we are now sharing updated information that reflects ongoing design work and feedback received so far. We are grateful for those who have already shared their feedback with us and invite further comments until 31st October 2025. After this, all comments will be carefully reviewed before we finalise the design and prepare a planning application for submission to Torridge District Council.

New draft plans have now been shared including:

• Development Zone Plan

• Fire Tender Access Plan

Further information is included on the Proposals page of the website, including the new plans and detail regarding the proposed battery units (sizing, elevation and appearance), fencing for the site and site access.

There has been a slight change to the northern access, which has been repositioned slightly south to protect a mature Beech tree and improve visibility.

The plan is a working draft for consultation purposes. The final layout will evolve as the technical work progresses, and we consider feedback from yourselves and consultees. The technical assessment and survey work currently being undertaken includes consideration for landscape, heritage, noise, flood risk and drainage, ecology and transport (including construction traffic management plan).

We welcome any feedback you have on the plans via the ‘Contact us’ page, by email (contact@bidefordbess.co.uk) or via Freephone (0808 1688 296).

A battery energy storage system stores electricity in large batteries and releases it when demand is higher than supply. This helps to keep the electricity grid stable and reliable while supporting the use of renewable energy.

Battery storage is essential for the UK’s transition to clean energy. It balances fluctuations in renewable generation, reduces reliance on fossil fuels, and helps National Grid manage supply during periods of high demand.

The proposed facility will have a capacity of 99.4 MW, enough to help power thousands of homes for several hours during periods of peak demand

Yes. Safety is a top priority. The Trina Elementa technology is widely used globally with an excellent safety record. Each battery unit includes multiple protection layers such as fire suppression, temperature monitoring, and automatic shutdown. Specialists Greenfire Solutions Ltd are preparing a Fire and Plume Management Plan to ensure all risks are effectively managed.

Noise from the site will be very low. The main sources are the cooling fans on the battery units and the transformer. The facility will be designed to meet the strict noise limits set by Torridge District Council, ensuring there is no adverse impact on nearby residents. Additional planting and fencing around the site will further help to absorb and screen any residual sound.

Security fencing will be of a standard palisade or mesh design, typically up to 2.4 metres high. New hedgerows and landscaping will screen the site from nearby roads and properties. Planting will mature over time to provide year-round cover.

The site has been chosen to avoid direct impacts on heritage assets. Archaeological surveys and trenching will be undertaken, and landscaping will help preserve heritage settings.

The project will deliver at least a 10% biodiversity net gain through planting and habitat creation for birds and pollinators.

Traffic will be carefully planned with temporary access improvements and limited working hours. Once operational, vehicle movements will be minimal.

Yes. Local contractors and suppliers will be prioritised during construction.

The BESS is expected to operate for up to 40 years. At the end of its life, all infrastructure will be removed and the land restored to agricultural use.

It will not supply power directly to homes, but by improving grid efficiency, it helps reduce overall energy costs and supports affordable energy nationally.