New guide aims to support informed conversations around grid-scale battery storage

The importance of clear, accessible information

Battery energy storage systems (BESS) are playing an increasingly important role in the UK’s transition to a clean, flexible and resilient electricity system. As renewable generation increases, grid-scale batteries help ensure clean power is available when needed. This improves flexibility, reduces system costs and supports a more resilient energy network.

Battery storage is now the fastest growing power technology. In 2025, 108 GW of new battery storage capacity was deployed worldwide, representing a 40% increase on the previous year.  In GB, around 2 GW of new BESS entered commercial operation during the same period, worth an estimated £1.2bn of investment.  

As the sector expands, it is important that communities, decision makers and stakeholders have access to clear, balanced information about what battery storage is, how it works and how key issues are being managed in practice.

Designed for local communities, elected representatives and other stakeholders, Battery Energy Storage Systems Explained provides clear, evidence-based answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about battery storage developments. It explores 10 key topics relevant to grid-scale battery storage project sites, drawing on the latest industry thinking, evolving standards and established good practice.

Addressing common issues

This guide addresses the topics most commonly raised by communities and stakeholders, including:

• Fire safety and emergency response planning
• Environmental effects and biodiversity considerations
• Land use, siting and landscape integration
• Noise and visual impacts and design mitigation
• Cybersecurity and operational resilience.

Each topic reflects how the sector is currently approaching these challenges, including evolving standards, regulatory oversight and technical innovation.

Battery storage is a fast-moving sector, with continuous improvements in technology, safety systems and industry standards. Battery Energy Storage Systems Explained reflects this evolving landscape, providing a clear snapshot of how the sector is currently addressing key challenges and opportunities.

‍

‍

Supporting informed conversations

This guide is intended to help people better understand battery storage and support informed conversations about projects. By providing accessible information, it aims to support more informed conversations between MPs, communities and developers.

We plan to share this guide across the industry and through a programme of engagement with MPs. For more information or to discuss, please contact Electricity Storage Network lead Olly Frankland.

‍