EDF expands Energy Superhub network for clean transport and urban decarbonisation

EDF Renewables UK has started construction of a 50MW/100MWh battery energy storage (BESS) site in Coventry, marking the next stage in the roll-out of the company’s planned Energy Superhub network based on an installation already operating in Oxford.

The lithium-ion battery, delivered by Wärtsilä, will be directly connected to the high-voltage transmission network and controlled via Wärtsilä’s GEMS Digital Energy Platform.

Energy Superhub Coventry also support an EV charging network at strategic charging locations around the city.

Construction at the battery site is expected to be live next year. EDF Renewables said it is planning for up to 40 similar projects across the country, providing 2GW of transmission-connected battery storage to support more renewables and create infrastructure for mass-scale, rapid EV charging and broader urban decarbonisation.

Matthew Boulton, Director of Storage and Private Wire at EDF Renewables UK said, “Transport and energy are the UK’s two most polluting sectors. Our Energy Superhub model helps to cut emissions from both at the same time, scaling up renewable energy and clean transport to accelerate a net zero future.

“Building on the foundation of the first Energy Superhub in Oxford, we are focused on applying the model to meet unique regional and local challenges. Coventry has long been at the forefront of transport innovation and our smart power infrastructure will deliver the capacity they need to lead the UK’s transition to electric mobility.”

Cllr Jim O’Boyle, Cabinet Member for Jobs, Regeneration and Climate Change at Coventry City Council, said, “We’re pleased to work with EDF Renewables UK, which will help power homes with cleaner energy, decarbonise transport and improve air quality. This will complement our plans for greener travel in the city, including Very Light Rail and our plans to completely electrify Coventry’s bus fleet by 2025.”