West Lothian Council’s Development Management Committee unanimously agreed to the proposed development, which is to the west of Bathgate beside the A801, near Middlerigg Farm.

Battery energy storage systems (BESS) enable energy from renewables such as wind turbines or solar farms to be safely stored, and then released when power is required. By allowing renewable energy to be stored until it is needed, they aim to help tackle the climate emergency by reducing reliance on fossil fuel plants and the emissions they produce.

Planning officers also recommended the proposal was granted, as it is in line with a range of national policy guidelines aimed at tackling climate change, encouraging renewable energy, promoting biodiversity and sustainability and rural development.

The site will include a BESS up to 49.9 MW, as well as associated works including a new access road with deceleration lane off the A801, near the Heatherfield Roundabout, and additional tree planting.

The project is the renewable energy company Galileo Empower’s first consent in Scotland.

Galileo Empower is committed to ensuring that local people benefit from the positive economic and social value that this project can bring. It is envisioned that a community benefit fund will focus on two key priorities: health/physical activity, as well as training/education.

The company is also committed to ensuring that, wherever reasonably possible, local suppliers and contractors are used in all aspects of the construction and operation of the battery storage facility.

Laura Petrie, project manager, said: “We are delighted to have received unanimous consent for a battery storage facility at Middlerigg, our first consent in Scotland, which followed extensive engagement with local communities

“Infrastructure such as this has a vital part to play as we move away from polluting fossil fuels to clean, green, renewable energy, playing a critical role in tackling climate change and supporting Scotland to achieve its net zero target.

“We are confident that this project will bring considerable economic and environmental benefits to West Lothian. 

“In addition to a community benefit fund, the development will also deliver considerable investment, creating jobs and boosting the skills of our current and future workforce.

“We look forward to continuing to engage with the Council and local communities as we progress the consented project.”

Conditional planning permission has been granted for 30 years for the site, which is currently used as rough grazing land.