BW ESS, a prominent energy storage owner-operator, has acquired two utility-scale standalone battery energy storage system (BESS) projects in France from Recurrent Energy, a global owner and operator of solar and energy storage assets. The acquisition marks BW ESS’ entry into France, its seventh market globally.
The projects, each with a capacity of 100 MW / 400 MWh are located in the regions of Calvados and Eastern Pyrenees. Both projects, which are in advanced development, are expected to play an important role in supporting the resilience of the French power system as the country continues to integrate higher levels of renewable energy. The acquisition represents a significant step in the continued expansion of BW ESS’ international energy storage platform.
France is an increasingly important market for battery energy storage, underpinned by the country’s growing need for flexible capacity, system balancing and grid stability. As renewable generation continues to expand, large-scale BESS assets are expected to become increasingly critical in helping to manage supply and demand, reduce system constraints and support the efficient operation of the electricity network.
The two projects are expected to benefit from their standalone configuration and strategic positioning within the French power system. As battery storage assets, they will be able to provide rapid-response flexibility and balancing services.
Erik Strømsø, CEO and co-founder of BW ESS, commented: “These acquisitions give us an immediate 200 MW / 800 MWh platform in the country and provide a strong foundation for building a sizeable French portfolio. France has a strong nuclear base, but it also has a growing need for flexibility as weather-sensitive demand and an evolving generation mix create more variable system conditions.”
BW ESS intends to own and operate the assets over the long term. Recurrent Energy will continue to lead the projects through the remaining development phase until they are ready-to-build.
