Swedish engineering consultancy Sweco has announced its plans to design one of Europe’s largest battery energy storage systems, named Green Turtle, in Belgium. This ambitious project is being developed on behalf of GIGA Storage Belgium and is set to make a significant contribution to the country’s energy grid.
The Green Turtle battery park will feature a capacity of 700 megawatts, translating to a storage capacity of 2,800 megawatt-hours. This amount is sufficient to power approximately 385,000 households annually, providing essential stored renewable energy during periods of low solar and wind production.
The initiative aims to reduce Belgium’s reliance on gas power plants, enhancing energy security and sustainability.
Construction for the Green Turtle project is scheduled to commence in 2025, with completion expected by 2028 with the project is expected to integrate renewable energy sources into the national grid effectively.
The project aligns with the European Union’s target of sourcing 42.5% of its energy from renewable sources by 2030. However, the permitting process for grid enhancements has been slow, posing challenges for timely implementation.
In a supportive move for renewable initiatives, EU regulators recently approved a €682 million Belgian state aid scheme aimed at bolstering offshore wind energy projects. This funding is expected to complement efforts like the Green Turtle battery park.
Joeri Siborgs, General Manager of GIGA Storage Belgium, highlighted the significance of this project: “The agreement concluded with our contractors, including Sweco, marks an important milestone. This flagship project in Belgium is crucial for realizing the energy transition in Europe, where access to large-scale electricity storage plays a vital role.”
Battery energy storage systems (BESS) are essential for facilitating the transition away from fossil fuels by allowing excess renewable energy to be stored and utilized during peak demand periods. This capability helps maintain grid stability and reduces the need for fossil fuel-based power generation.
The Green Turtle project exemplifies advancements in battery technology that contribute to more efficient energy management and integration of renewable sources into existing power networks.
