Root-Power Wins Approval for £45m Battery Storage Project
Root-Power has secured planning approval on appeal for a major new battery energy storage facility in Leicestershire, marking another significant step forward in the UK’s energy transition. The £45 million project is designed to store surplus electricity and release it back to the National Grid during periods of peak demand, helping to balance supply as renewable energy generation continues to scale.
As the UK accelerates its move away from fossil fuels and increases reliance on intermittent renewable sources such as wind and solar, large-scale energy storage is becoming a critical piece of national infrastructure. Projects like this are increasingly recognised as essential for maintaining grid stability while supporting decarbonisation targets.
What’s happening
The approved facility will have a capacity of 100MW and will be located near Kegworth in Leicestershire. Once operational, it will provide rapid-response electricity to the grid, helping to smooth fluctuations in supply and demand, stabilise energy prices, and reduce the likelihood of blackouts during periods of high consumption.
The site has been designed with flood-resilient features, reflecting the growing need to factor climate-related risks into energy infrastructure planning. Construction is currently expected to begin in 2029, with the facility anticipated to operate for between 15 and 20 years.
In addition to its energy benefits, the project is forecast to deliver a 71% biodiversity net gain, demonstrating how energy infrastructure can be developed alongside meaningful environmental enhancements rather than at their expense.
Why this matters for UK businesses
For UK businesses, the expansion of battery energy storage is more than a national infrastructure story it has direct commercial implications.
Greater grid resilience helps reduce the risk of power outages that can disrupt operations, data systems, manufacturing, and supply chains. Over time, increased storage capacity also supports more stable and predictable energy pricing, reducing exposure to volatility driven by peak demand or constrained supply.
From a sustainability perspective, energy storage enables higher penetration of renewables across the grid. This supports businesses seeking to decarbonise their operations, meet SECR and other reporting requirements, and align with net-zero commitments without compromising operational reliability.
Key facts at a glance
100MW battery energy storage system approved in Leicestershire
£45 million investment focused on renewable energy storage infrastructure
Designed with flood-resilient features to manage climate risk
Forecast 71% biodiversity net gain
Construction expected to start in 2029
Operational lifespan of approximately 15–20 years
Supports decarbonisation and strengthens National Grid resilience
SBS insight
This project highlights the increasingly strategic role that energy storage plays in the UK’s transition to a low-carbon economy. As renewable generation grows, storage will be essential in ensuring energy security, price stability, and resilience for businesses of all sizes.
At Sustainable Business Services (SBS), we support organisations in understanding how developments like this affect their energy strategy, carbon reporting, and long-term cost management. From emissions reporting and compliance through to energy procurement and net-zero planning, we help businesses translate infrastructure change into practical, commercial advantage.
Further reading
BDC Magazine – Root-Power clears planning hurdle for £45m Leicestershire energy storage project
Energy Global – £45 million renewable energy storage facility in UK gets the green light
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