Large-Scale Battery Energy Storage System Strengthens Finnish Power Grid
Merus Power, a leading technology company, has inked a deal worth approximately 15 million euros to supply a substantial Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) to a joint venture between Skip Wind 5 Oy and Lappeenrannan Energia Oy. This joint venture, backed by Ardian Clean Energy Evergreen Fund (ACEEF), has chosen Merus Power to deliver a 38-megawatt and over 40-megawatt-hour BESS. The project, set for completion by spring 2025, aims to fortify the Finnish power grid and will be situated in Lappeenranta, near the Mertaniemi power plant.
Comprehensive Battery Energy Storage Solution
Merus Power’s delivery encompasses a complete package, complying with the approval tests of Finland’s transmission system operator, Fingrid, for energy storage. The project’s total investment, including local infrastructure and a long-term maintenance contract, signifies the commitment of Ardian and Lappeenrannan Energia to advancing energy infrastructure in the Nordics. The financial backing for the project comes from Ardian through its Ardian Clean Energy Evergreen Fund.
Supporting Grid Balance and Renewable Energy Growth
The primary function of the energy storage system is to participate in Fingrid’s frequency reserve markets, supporting the balancing of production and consumption in the power grid. Kari Tuomala, CEO of Merus Power, expressed the company’s success in the sector, emphasizing the strategic importance of this agreement.
Benjamin Kennedy, Managing Director, Renewables Infrastructure, Ardian, highlighted the investment’s significance in scaling Finland’s wind capacity and connecting battery storage technology to create a balanced energy system. Ardian manages its Nordic investments through operating partner eNordic Oy, a renewable energy investment platform.
Focus on Sustainable Development
Eero Auranne, CEO of eNordic Oy, emphasized their commitment to transforming the Nordic energy system toward sustainable development. Fast-reactive energy storage is crucial for maintaining the balance between electricity production and consumption, especially with the increasing prevalence of renewable energy sources.
The contract includes a long-term maintenance and operation agreement, ensuring the high availability of the energy storage system over the long term. Markus Ovaskainen, Sales Director of Merus Power, highlighted the comprehensive measures, including remote control and cloud service, to ensure operational reliability and the longevity of the investment.
Source：di.se
