Frequently Asked Questions

Why energy storage?

Our energy system is in a transitionary period.

Ageing infrastructure is being replaced and greater flexibility introduced into our networks via technological advances, such as energy storage, to manage the increasingly complex supply and demand needs of the 21st Century.

Energy storage is crucial in enabling the rollout of zero carbon energy and supporting the UK’s net-zero emissions target.

Renewable energy technologies are needed to replace electricity generation from fossil fuels, however, they can generate electricity intermittently depending on weather conditions, which can cause imbalances in the electricity network.

Energy storage works by storing energy at times when generation exceeds demand and then releases electricity back to the electricity network when demand exceeds generation. Energy storage is also considered the fastest technology for responding to a sudden spike in demand or an abrupt loss of supply.

Electricity is not physically generated on site.

Why here?

The project has been specifically located close to the existing Alness electrical substation where the project will connect to the wider grid network. An energy storage system needs to be able to both import and export energy and whilst the availability of sites with sufficient import and export capacity is diminishing, the existing substation at Alness has a viable amount of both import and export capacity available.

By locating the project here, there is minimum requirement for additional overhead and/or underground cables to connect the project to the grid network, therefore limiting any environmental impacts.

Energy storage systems also need to be located as close as possible to the substation from which its grid connection is provided in order to limit electrical losses and ensure efficiency of the system. No alternative sites have been identified in the local area that offer a grid connection at such a short distance.

The land is outside of any local or national designations, and is located a good distance from residential properties. 

Where will the site access be?

Access for the site will be taken from the existing access that serves the field on the B9176 road. This access sits c.240m south of the access to Alness Substation and is currently used for agricultural purposes. This access was chosen as it allows better visibility from the north and south.  Visibility splays of 215m are more easily achieved, and there is a clear view from the entrance from further away and has been discussed with the Transport Team at The Highland Council.

What about the visual impact?

The site is not located within any landscape designations and potential visibility is limited by existing mature woodland to the north, east and south. 

The project is being specifically designed to include additional planting of native trees, hedgerows and wildflower grass areas. These will not only further reduce potential visibility of the scheme but also deliver a biodiversity net gain by providing wildlife corridors and vital resources for mammals, birds, and insect species.

A Landscaping Masterplan, Woodland Planting Plan and Tree Protection Plan formed part of the planning application. These set out details of new native planting including an aftercare regime as well as measures we will take to protect and enhance existing planting.

Any potential cumulative visual impact with the neighbouring energy storage proposal has also been considered as part of the Contullich Energy Storage System planning application.

What is the land currently used for?

The land to be used by the Contullich Energy Storage System is currently used primarily for wheat crop and has been designated as being of low ecological value.

Whilst located on land currently used for agricultural purposes, the Contullich project would not pose a risk to food security. One of the biggest risks to food security is the changing climate. According to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), climate change could reduce the UK’s stock of high-grade agricultural land by nearly three-quarters by 2050.

Battery energy storage schemes like Contullich can enable and accelerate the rollout of renewable energy, directly tackling the effects of climate change.

What stage is the project at?

RES received planning consent for the Contullich Energy Storage project in January 2025.