Plans for a new battery energy storage facility in West Sussex have received unanimous approval from the Mid Sussex District Council, despite considerable local opposition. The proposed site at Coombe Farm, covering 27 acres, has faced dozens of objection letters, with the Twineham Parish Council citing concerns over its proximity to residential areas.
In an interview, a representative from One Planet Developments emphasized the urgent need for energy storage solutions in the UK. They explained that the facility would store electricity generated during peak renewable energy periods and release it when needed. However, the Twineham Parish Council raised additional worries about potential conflicts with the Rampion 2 cable route, part of a planned expansion for a nearby wind farm.
Meanwhile, the West Sussex Fire and Rescue service did not express any concerns about the project, and Bolney Parish Council also voiced their apprehensions, as reported by the Local Democracy Reporting Service.
Christopher Phillips, chairman of the council’s planning committee, voiced surprise over the application’s submission prior to resolving issues surrounding the Rampion 2 wind farm. Nevertheless, council officers determined that this did not justify delaying the decision. “While we sympathize with residents,” Phillips remarked, “we are largely following expert recommendations.” He noted the importance of locating the facility near the substation to minimize power loss.
The developer’s spokesperson highlighted that the project is crucial in the context of shifting toward renewable energy sources like solar and wind. They warned that without such storage facilities, the UK could face energy security risks or be forced to rely on building additional fossil fuel power stations and gas peaking plants.
Councillors were informed that due to the complex nature of the development, work must commence within seven years.
