National Grid has connected the UK’s largest battery energy storage system (BESS) to its transmission network at Tilbury substation in Essex. The 300MW Thurrock Storage project, developed by Statera Energy, is now energized and delivering flexible electricity to the network across London and the South East. With a capacity of 600MWh, Thurrock Storage can power up to 680,000 homes and help balance supply and demand by storing surplus clean electricity and discharging it when needed. National Grid reinforced the Tilbury substation to accommodate the battery's load, installing new protection and control systems to ensure a robust connection. This marks a symbolic transition from the site's previous coal power plants to supporting a more sustainable energy future. John Twomey, Director of Customer and Network Development at National Grid Electricity Transmission, highlighted the vital role of battery storage in Britain's clean energy transition. Tom Vernon, CEO and founder of Statera Energy, emphasized the importance of increased BESS capacity for managing renewable energy fluctuations. National Grid is also working to connect the 450MW Thurrock Flexible Generation facility at Tilbury. The battery connection follows National Grid's connection of the 373MW Cleve Hill Solar Park in Kent, the largest solar plant in the UK.