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Omexom Delivers Key Works for Zenobē’s Kilmarnock South Battery Storage Project

UK and RoI / Energy storage

Omexom in Scotland, UK is approaching the final stages of construction on the new 300MW/600MWh Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at Kilmarnock South.

The project, developed for Zenobē, is set to be fully energized by the end of the year. The project serves as a cornerstone of Zenobē’s £750 million plan: to double Scotland’s battery storage capacity within three years. 

In recent months, the team has achieved several important milestones. The main civils works were completed by end of 2024, leaving the site ready for construction, with electrical installations beginning as per schedule. Electrical work was completed by end of April making the way for commissioning starting in May. 

 

Precision in Progress: Kilmarnock BESS Project Update

Road to Full Energization

Cold commissioning started as per schedule, followed by hot commissioning, which was successfully completed on July 27. Full energization is expected towards the end of 2025. 

One of the biggest milestones was reached at the end of July, where supply cabling up to the GIS-AIS connection point was successfully tested. This checked out the integrity of the system and its ready-for-operation status. 

The Kilmarnock BESS project, born alongside our Business Unit in 2023, is a testament to our team’s dedication, expertise, and collaboration. It embodies our values of innovation, safety, and sustainability, strengthening our position in Scottish renewables and advancing the energy transition through teamwork and excellence.

Garcia Jose Business Unit General Manager at Omexom in the UK

Once fully operational, the system will help to increase grid efficiency and reduce wind curtailment, reducing these costs for consumers. It is also expected to prevent 3.3 million tonnes of CO2 emissions within that time. 

Zenobē is the developer of the battery system, which it is designing, building and operating it. The Kilmarnock South BESS is now one of the largest in Scotland, and among the most significant grid-scale storage assets in Europe. 

The Kilmarnock BESS site is more than construction, it’s vision meeting execution. Every unit, planned section, and person on-site drives a future powered by innovation, sustainability, and excellence. From an empty field to a game-changing energy hub, progress is fueled by purpose and uncompromising standards.

Wedlock Gary Project Director at Omexom in the UK

In addition to supporting Scotland’s ambitious clean energy goals, this project will equip the grid with advanced technology to better manage renewable energy sources.  

We’ve worked closely with Omexom to bring our plans for Kilmarnock South to life, and they’ve delivered to Zenobē’s exacting standards in both technology and safety. As we go into the final stages of construction we’ll continue to collaborate and work together to ensure successful completion of this major project.

Wood Simon Director of Delivery at Zenobē

The Omexom team is now focused on completing the final stages of commissioning. The site is currently being prepared for full energization after all critical systems have been verified. 

Why Are This Substation and BESS Important for the UK?

The Kilmarnock South electricity substation is a key part of the 400kV transmission network, helping to deliver renewable energy generated in Scotland to areas across the UK where demand is highest. The National Grid Electricity System Operator identified the Kilmarnock substation as one of several key locations on the transmission network in need of essential stability services.