The project

Solar PV modules which are made up of multiple PV cells which convert the sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity.

Energy storage allows electricity generated during times of low demand to be stored and then released to the National Electricity Transmission System when required such as peak electricity usage periods.

There are a number of different designs for the BESS that will be explored as part of the design process. Batteries will likely be housed within enclosures (also referred to as units). The precise number of enclosures will depend upon the level of power capacity and duration of energy storage that the project will require; investigations are ongoing to determine this. 

Inverters convert the DC electricity generated by the solar PV modules into alternating current (AC), the type of electricity we use in our homes, so it can be exported to the National Grid for use.

Transformers change the voltage of the electricity generated which makes it more efficient to move over longer distances.

The transformers ensure that the voltage of the energy generated is matched to the voltage of the national grid for transmission and distribution around the UK. 

Substations are important as they allow us to safely collect and manage the energy exported from the site to the national grid.

On-site substations will be used to manage the energy leaving the site via the grid connection cable route to the new National Grid Electricity Transmission (NGET) substation.

At this time the exact location of a new National Grid substation is unknown, however, it is expected to be located along the existing Dungeness to Sellindge overhead line (OHL).

We’ll work closely with National Grid to determine how the Project will connect to new National Grid substation whether via underground cables or by connecting directly to an overhead line that passes close to the site. NGET plan to hold a public consultation for the new substation.

We will use underground cables to connect the three site areas (see Design section) to the onsite BESS and on-site substation.

We’ll also work with National Grid to identify a ‘cable route corridor’ to transport electricity off the site and connect into the new National Grid substation.

This consultation would be undertaken by National Grid, who would seek the required permissions to construct this.

Security fencing will enclose all the site equipment.

This will be unobtrusive mesh fencing, and, where appropriate, screened from view by planting.

The site will also have security cameras which would be aligned to capture only the fence and the area inside the fence to monitor the equipment.