Micro energy storage project at Land To The South Of Tamerton Road, Woolwell, Plymouth

What was proposed

The application sought four battery storage cabinets in a fenced compound to store electricity and return it to the grid when needed.

“Proposal Description The proposal is for the construction of a micro energy storage project, to provide a 200kW (800kWhr) Energy Storage System (ESS) (known as a 'Battery Box'). The installation comprises four battery storage cabinets contained within a timber and mesh fence approximately 2.4 metres tall. The compound is 2.705 metres wide by seven metres long (including an external grid interface cabinet and narrow section of concrete slab).”

“The submitted planning statement describes a Battery Box as an ESS that imports electricity from the local electricity network when demand for electricity is low or when there are high levels of renewable energy available. It then exports that electricity back to the grid when required during periods of high demand.”

Officer report

The site and surroundings

The site is a grass verge beside Tamerton Road, near trees, homes, a detached house and a factory with parking opposite.

“Description of Site The site comprises a grass verge on the southern side of Tamerton Road, approximately 40 metres south-east of its junction with Belliver Way. The back edge of the verge merges into a line off shrubs that in turn are backed by a broad belt of semi-mature trees, which stretches south- eastwards to Lady Fern Road.”

“Way junction. There is a large factory and associated parking directly opposite on the northern side of the road.”

Officer report

What officers advised

Officers considered the project’s energy benefits stronger than its effects on the area and recommended conditional approval.

“Conclusions and Reasons for Decision The development would contribute to electricity grid management and indirectly support the wider deployment of renewable energy in the area. The impact on the character of the area is not so serious as to outweigh the benefits of the scheme, which are supported by policy DEV33 of the JLP.”

“Officers have taken account of the NPPF and S38(6) of the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 and concluded that the proposal accords with policy and national guidance and is therefore recommended for conditional approval.”

Officer report

What consultees said

The highway, environmental health, flood and water authorities raised no continuing objection, while crime prevention officers had security concerns.

“Consultation Responses Designing Out Crime - raises certain queries and concerns regarding the security of the installation.”

“South West Water - the structure was too close to the SWW water main and has been relocated to avoid SWW apparatus.”

Officer report

What residents said

One objection said the batteries could catch fire and release toxic fumes, creating a hazard near homes and traffic.

“Representations An objection has been received, on the grounds that the batteries used in the battery box could catch fire and release toxic fumes, which is hazardous in this area due to the proximity of residential property and traffic.”

Officer report

Who spoke

The planning officer presented the report, and an objector spoke about the application.

What members debated

A councillor proposed deferring the application to a future meeting so safety measures could be included.

“Councillor McCarty proposed a motion to defer the application to a future meeting to include safety measures. This was seconded by Cllr Ms Watkin.”

Minutes