Berwick Renewables (Distribution)
About this Project
Berwick Renewables (Distribution) is a substantial three-phase project targeting a 2032 connection to the distribution network, with a combined capacity of 224 MWp solar, 160 MW of battery energy storage, and wind generation under consideration for Phases 2 and 3.
Phase 1 is the most advanced, with a grid offer accepted, planning submission targeted within the next nine months, and a signed land option. Phases 2 and 3 are at an earlier stage, with land identified and Heads of Terms under negotiation, pending National Grid application windows. The project represents one of Empower Projects’ most ambitious distribution-connected developments, with a total anticipated grid connection cost of £11.2 million for Phase 1 alone.
Planning Status and Milestones
Phase 1 planning has not yet commenced, with submission expected within nine months. Phases 2 and 3 have no current planning activity. Grid offers for Phase 1 have been accepted. Connection applications for Phases 2 and 3 are pending the National Grid application process. Gate 2 securities for all phases are yet to be confirmed. Land options are signed for Phase 1, with land identified and HOTs under negotiation for Phases 2 and 3.
Connection Details
All three phases connect at the Berwick DNO connection point, with individual export and import capacities of 40, 60, and 60 MVA respectively. Phase 1 connection cost is estimated at £11.2 million, with Phases 2 and 3 subject to separate National Grid applications. Gate 2 grid securities for all phases will be provided in the Gate 2 offer. The target connection date for all phases is 2032, making this one of the portfolio’s earlier transmission milestones.
Site and Surrounding Area
Precise site location is subject to planning preparation. The project is positioned to exploit available distribution network capacity in its target region. Full geographical detail will be made available as planning preparation and community consultation proceed in advance of the formal application.
Current Status
Planning
Not Started
(All Phases)
Land
Option Signed (Ph.1) / HOTs
Negotiating (Ph.2 & 3)
Grid Offer
Offer Accepted
(Ph.1)
Development Phases
| Phase | Phase 1 | Phase 2 | Phase 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solar (MWp) | 56 MWp | 84 MWp | 84 MWp |
| BESS (MW/Hr) | 40 MW / 2 Hr | 60 MW / 2 Hr | 60 MW / 2 Hr |
| Wind (MW) | - | TBC | TBC |
| Grid AC | 40 MW | 60 MW | 60 MW |
| Connection | 2032 | 2032 | 2032 |