Battery Energy Storage Systems: planning guidance

1 Introduction

1.1 Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) will play an important role in Scotland’s transition towards a low-carbon, resilient, and efficient energy system. Through enabling the integration of renewable energy and supporting grid stability, BESS development can contribute to achieving national ambitions for renewable energy deployment and addressing climate change. Our planning and consenting systems have an important role in facilitating the delivery of appropriately sited BESS projects while delivering wider policy and placemaking objectives.

Purpose of Guidance

1.2 This guidance has been prepared by Ironside Farrar on behalf of Scottish Government with input from industry, planning authorities, NatureScot, Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS).

1.3 The core purpose of the guidance is to assist applicants, decision-makers, and other participants in the planning system to effectively plan for BESS across Scotland. It seeks to support a clearer understanding of the specific technical, environmental, and wider issues associated with planning for BESS, and how these may be positively addressed through the planning process, to ensure that development is appropriately sited, well designed, and responsive to its context.

1.4 The guidance recognises that BESS remains an evolving sector, with few currently operational sites and the potential for change of battery technologies likely in the future. It therefore encourages a proportionate, positive and collaborative approach between applicants and decision-makers with a strong emphasis on appropriate site selection and effective pre-application engagement.

1.5 The guidance relates specifically to the planning and consenting process for grid-scale^[1] BESS under The Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1997 and, where relevant, under The Electricity Act 1989. A number of other regulatory regimes or approvals which may be relevant to the construction and operation of BESS development are summarised in Section 5 but are otherwise outwith the scope of this guidance.

Using this Guidance

1.6 The guidance is not an exhaustive list or guide to all planning issues that may be encountered in planning for BESS. It will be for the decision-maker to interpret and apply all relevant planning and consenting legislation and policy, taking into account the circumstances of the individual case.

1.7 The guidance is intended for use by all participants in planning for BESS, including applicants, decision-makers, consultees, and communities. It seeks to provide clarity on requirements, responsibilities, and outline effective approaches to addressing planning issues for BESS. It can be used to inform appropriate site selection and support a pro-active approach to engagement early in project development.