Sizing John battery energy storage system (BESS), developed by Varco Energy with grid technology from Fluence, has successfully brought phase 1 into commercial operation, and launched phase 2 of the project. Sizing John’s phase 1 has a capacity of 57 MW/137.5 MWh while its phase 2 features an additional 85.5 MW/201 MWh. When fully complete, the east Liverpool energy storage project will have a total capacity of 142.5 MW/348.5 MWh, making Sizing John one of the largest battery storage sites in the UK.
Project Overview
Phase 1 of Sizing John battery storage (BESS) provides 2.4-hour energy duration. It also helps balance demand and supply in east Liverpool grid zone. The battery storage project is also expected to offer flexibility and congestion relief as renewable penetration in the UK continues to increase after the government recently gave a nod for the development of Helios’ solar-storage hybrid project in North Yorkshire. The plan for Sizing John phase 2 includes deployment of Fluence’s next-generation Gridstack Pro 5000 with grid forming capabilities. This battery is also going to offer voltage and frequency regulation.
Project Factsheet for Sizing John Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in the UK
Developers: Varco Energy. Project is also backed by Adaptogen Capital fund, and Fluence Energy UK Ltd.
Location: Mersey Ring area in east of Liverpool, UK
Phase 1 capacity: 57 MW/137.5 MWh
Phase 2 capacity: 85.5 MW/201 MWh
Total planned capacity: 142.5 MW/348.5 MWh
Project Status: Phase 1 complete. Phase 2 launched and under construction.
Utility: Grid balancing and congestion relief. Also support renewable integration and stabilize the grid in constrained Mersey Ring area.
Significance: Once fully operational, Sizing John will be among the UK’s largest battery energy storage system installations.
Project Timeline
September 2023: Varco Energy selects Fluence to deliver Sizing John BESS project. Initial scope covers area at Rainhill substation.
2024 through 2025: Project development, design, interconnection agreements get looked at. Fluence’s Gridstack battery chosen for phase 1 of the storage project.
December 2025: Phase 1 of Sizing John BESS achieves full commercial operation. Phase 2 also launched featuring a 85.5 MW/201 MWh expansion.
Q4 2026: Expected commercial operation date for phase 2 of Sizing John BESS. Will bring total project capacity to 142.5 MW/348.5 MWh.