THE PUBLIC will be able to have their say on plans to build a battery energy storage system at Hillend.

Renewable Connections Developments will host an online consultation today (Thursday) with two sessions for the community to give their views.

The proposals are for a 42 megawatt storage system – which enable energy from renewables, like solar and wind, to be stored and then released when customers need power most – to be located on a site at Clockluine Road, west of the Plant Market garden centre.

The firm explained: "Battery storage has a key role to play in ensuring homes and businesses can be powered by renewable energy sources, even when the sun isn’t shining or when the wind isn’t blowing.

"Batteries help to manage the peaks and troughs of energy demand, supporting a more stable and reliable national electricity grid that is capable of delivering the transition to decarbonised transport and heating needed to meet the country’s net zero goals.

"The UK Government estimates that the implementation of battery energy storage systems could save the UK energy system up to £40 billion in operating costs by 2050, which will help to reduce individual energy bills."

If approved by Fife Council, the Balbougie battery energy storage system will be operational for 40 years.

The online sessions, with representatives of Renewable Connections Developments on hand to answer questions and explain their proposals, are from 12-1pm and from 6-7pm.

You can register by visiting the website balbougiebatterystorage.co.uk or call 0131 555 3311.

The consultation period will close on March 10.