Mr Patsy McGlone (Mid Ulster): To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) any action she is taking to ensure greater urgency, in relation to grid connection timelines for Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) projects in the north; and (ii) any consideration she has made of the benefits of introducing target timelines for grid connections for BESS projects.
Minister for the Economy: My Department recognises the importance of timely grid connections for Battery Energy Storage System projects. Through the Grid Development Monitoring Group, the Department works with SONI, NIE Networks and the Utility Regulator to identify barriers and support timely network development.
Connection applications are processed by SONI and NIE Networks, with the Utility Regulator responsible for regulatory oversight. The Department’s forthcoming Energy Storage Policy Statement will consider how connection arrangements can better support the flexibility needs of the electricity system.
ENDS
