EDF Achieves 2 GW Milestone in Contracted Battery Energy Storage Capacity

EDF Wholesale Market Services (WMS) has reached a major milestone, with over 2 gigawatts (GW) of battery energy storage systems (BESS) now under contract in its route to market services in the UK. This achievement highlights EDF’s ongoing commitment to optimising battery storage systems for its partners, enhancing flexibility in the electricity system, and supporting the UK's transition to a low-carbon energy grid.

Battery energy storage systems are a critical component in the UK’s decarbonisation strategy, offering a sustainable solution to balance electricity supply and demand. By managing and optimising the storage and dispatch of renewable energy across a wide range of battery sizes, locations, and partner assets, EDF plays a key role in reducing reliance on traditional fossil fuels and advancing the UK’s carbon emissions targets.

A key enabler of EDF’s optimisation capability is PowerShift, the company’s market-leading platform designed to unlock the full value of flexibility from customer assets. Combining cutting-edge technology with EDF’s deep expertise, PowerShift leverages advanced modelling, real-time data analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), and sophisticated algorithms. This integration of human expertise and technology allows EDF to maximise the performance of BESS assets, delivering unmatched value and insights across the full revenue stack.

EDF’s milestone aligns with recent insights from the National Electricity System Operator (NESO) Clean Power 2030 report, which underscores the urgent need for rapid expansion across renewable and storage capacities. NESO projects that, to displace gas and meet growing demand, electricity supply and system flexibility require significant increases in offshore wind (from 15 GW in 2023 to 43–50 GW by 2030), onshore wind (14 GW to 27 GW), solar (15 GW to 47 GW), and battery storage (from 5 GW to over 22 GW). NESO estimates that battery storage capacity must scale from around 5 GW in 2023 to between 23 GW and 27 GW by 2030, and EDF’s expertise in battery optimisation directly supports this ambitious target.

Stuart Fenner, Director of Wholesale Market Services Commercial, at EDF said: “We’re thrilled to have reached 2 GW of contracted BESS capacity. This milestone reflects our dedication to helping our partners maximise the value of their battery storage investments, ensuring a greener, more resilient energy system. We are delighted to be working alongside so many key players in the market who are making a real difference to the UK energy landscape. As more renewable resources come online, optimising battery storage is increasingly essential to ensuring that clean energy is available precisely when it’s needed most.” Stuart continued, “We are also proud that our first asset, Clayhill, remains part of our portfolio today, a testament to our dedication and the value we place on enduring partnerships. This long-term commitment reflects our focus on building lasting relationships that support the continued growth of the energy storage market.”

EDF’s battery storage capacity strengthens its ability to provide dependable energy solutions to a range of customers, including grid operators, energy suppliers, and large industrial clients. By expanding its 3rd party storage portfolio, EDF is directly contributing to the stability of the UK grid and advancing the nation’s energy independence. With batteries’ shorter one-to-two-year deployment timelines and a growing pipeline of projects, EDF is well-positioned to support the increasing demands for flexible and reliable energy.

As EDF continues to expand its battery storage capacity working with the battery owners accross the UK, we remain focused on future milestones and innovations that further support the UK’s Net Zero ambitions. With BESS poised to play a central role in the future of energy, EDF is leading the way with solutions that help ensure a sustainable, secure, and efficient energy supply.

For more information about EDF Battery Optimisation, visit Battery storage optimisation solutions