Iron Acton Battery Energy Storage System (BESS)

Designing Resilient Grid Infrastructure Under Real-World Constraints

DACI Utilities Engineering Consultancy played a leading role in the delivery of the Iron Acton Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), a 120MW grid-scale development designed to support network stability and enable the integration of renewable energy at transmission level.

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EHV
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Battery Energy Storage
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Iron Acton, UK
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Confidential
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Project Overview

DACI Utilities Engineering Consultancy played a leading role in the delivery of the Iron Acton Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), a 120MW grid-scale development designed to support network stability and enable the integration of renewable energy at transmission level.

Connected to the National Grid at 132kV, the project required complex, multi-disciplinary engineering to deliver a resilient, high-performing solution within a constrained site.

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Project Overview

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120MW / 318.6MWh grid-scale BESS

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132kV National Grid connection

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Enables integration of large-scale renewable generation

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Supports UK transition to a flexible, low-carbon energy system

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Capacity
120MW / 318.6MWh grid-scale BESS
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Connection
132kV National Grid connection
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Sector
Battery Energy Storage

DACI Scope of Work

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132kV cable and substation design
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33kV internal distribution network
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BESS compound layout
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Protection, control and SCADA systems
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Earthing and bonding design
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Multi-disciplinary interface coordination

Key Engineering Challenges

01

Critical Design Risk

Existing 132kV cable design unsuitable after procurement.
02

Tight Timelines

Multiple engineering disciplines progressed simultaneously.
03

Complex Cabling Infrastructure

Dense HV, MV, LVAC, SCADA and communications network.
04

Advanced Cable Sizing

Thermal and cyclic load analysis required.
05

Special Bonding Requirements

Non-standard bonding solution for performance and cost efficiency.

DACI Solution

DACI developed an innovative engineering solution incorporating a non-standard bonding arrangement supported by advanced simulation and cyclic load analysis. Layered trench routing and detailed multidisciplinary coordination ensured a safe, compliant and efficient installation while maintaining programme delivery.

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Outcome

DACI avoided full cable replacement, preventing significant programme delays while maintaining construction progress. The completed solution delivers long-term performance, compliance and operational reliability.

Wider Impact

The Iron Acton BESS supports the UK's transition to a low-carbon energy system by enabling renewable energy integration, improving grid stability and strengthening network flexibility. The engineering methodologies developed have since informed future projects.

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Conclusion

Iron Acton demonstrates DACI's ability to solve complex engineering challenges and deliver critical energy infrastructure through technical excellence, collaboration and innovative problem-solving.

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