The Cockenzie BESS development transitioned into the delivery phase in March 2026. This dual-site project features a shared connection for a total 342MW. The shared connection is made up of 240MW and 102MW BESS and a substation, with a projected Commercial Operation Date (COD) of 2027.​

 

Infrastructure & Grid Resilience
The facility is situated adjacent to the SPT Cockenzie Substation, providing a high-capacity, cost-effective interconnection at a critical network node. As a rapid-response asset, the site will provide essential flexibility to Scottish Power Transmission, balancing intermittent renewable supply with real-time demand and ensuring long-term grid stability.

​

Regulatory Alignment & Land Use
The project is located on the site of the former Cockenzie Power Station, specifically designated for energy infrastructure under Policy PROP EGT1 of the East Lothian Council Local Development Plan. By repurposing legacy energy land, the development optimizes existing industrial footprints while significantly advancing the UK’s progress toward statutory renewable energy and storage targets.

 

Construction

Advanced Construction Scotland is delivering the first phase of groundworks, which will continue until late summer 2026. To ensure public safety during construction, new fencing is being installed to separate the bridle path from site activity.

A temporary access road, commissioned by East Lothian Council, will be in place until the new link road is completed (expected mid spring). This requires a short diversion of approximately 50 metres along the pedestrian core path.

In summer 2026, the project will be handed over to Gresham and Scottish Power Transmission's (SPT) main contractors, who will take the lead on the next phase of construction. This phase is expected to last between 12 and 14 months. The overall build programme is expected to take around 24 months.​

​

www.cockenziebatterystorage.co.uk

​