Ørsted Invests in Major Battery Energy Storage System for Hornsea 3 Offshore Wind Farm

Ørsted has announced a significant investment in a new battery energy storage system (BESS) to be co-located with its Hornsea 3 Offshore Wind Farm in Swardeston, near Norwich. This development aims to enhance the stability of the UK energy supply and mitigate price volatility for consumers.

Orsted Hornsea 1

The project will feature a Tesla battery energy storage system with a capacity of 600 MWh and a power rating of 300 MW, capable of supplying the daily energy needs of 80,000 UK homes. By storing excess electricity generated during periods of high wind and solar activity, the system will release this energy when demand peaks, thus balancing the grid and reducing energy costs during high-demand periods.

Co-locating the battery storage with the onshore converter station of the Hornsea 3 Offshore Wind Farm is a strategic decision to minimize disruption to local residents and businesses. This integration supports Ørsted’s strategy to enhance its renewable energy portfolio and strengthen grid management capabilities.

Duncan Clark, Head of UK & Ireland at Ørsted, highlighted the significance of this investment: “Our 12 operational UK offshore wind farms are providing a huge amount of clean energy to the grid. The battery will help ensure that renewable energy is used in the best possible way by storing it when demand is lower and then releasing it back into the system when it’s really needed, thereby maximizing the potential of renewable energy whilst providing increased energy security and value to consumers.”

Mike Snyder, Senior Director of Megapack at Tesla, expressed excitement about the collaboration: “Tesla is excited to be part of this industry-leading project with an exceptional partner. This project demonstrates the value and flexibility of Tesla’s best-in-class power electronics, providing enhanced grid stability and enabling more renewables on the grid.”

When operational by the end of 2026, this BESS will be one of the largest in Europe. Ørsted’s current portfolio includes 660 MW (1,850 MWh) of storage projects across the UK and US, with an additional 2 GW pipeline under development in the UK, Ireland, and the US. This latest investment underscores Ørsted’s commitment to advancing renewable energy infrastructure and supporting the UK’s transition to a more sustainable energy system.