Also in Europe, ContourGlobal has brought a 255MW BESS to commercial operation in Bulgaria. As of the 2021 build, this enormous system has a total capacity of 500 megawatt-hours (MWh). This facility marks an important step forward for the country’s evolving energy landscape. It establishes a framework to increase energy security and integrate more renewables into the national grid.
The newly operational BESS plant is situated within the perimeter of the ME3 TPP coal-fired power plant in the Stara Zagora region. The facility, which covers 25,000 square meters, is said to be an impressive showplace for the latest in battery technology. It’s made up of 110 BYD battery skids, plus 28 integrated power conversion systems and transformer units.
ContourGlobal believes in energy innovation and today, on that same site, is building a second BESS. This new addition will increase capacity by 202 megawatts (MW) in phase two of the project. This independent facility went online in March of this year. It is engaged in the real-time, day-ahead, and within-day (or intraday) segments of the US’ national electricity market.
During the commissioning ceremony, Antonio Cammisecra, CEO of ContourGlobal, stressed this milestone’s significance. The event attracted high-level participants, including Bulgaria’s Minister of Energy, Zhecho Stankov and Deputy Mayor of Galabovo, Eng. Planen Barakova.
“The commercial operation of our 202MW/500MWh BESS plant represents a significant step forward for battery storage development in Bulgaria and underscores ContourGlobal’s ability to deliver large-scale storage solutions across different markets and technologies.” – Antonio Cammisecra
Cammisecra further stated, “We have built a sizeable presence in battery energy storage, with this project in Bulgaria representing a key contribution to our 3GWh gigawatt-hour portfolio of operating BESS projects.” This expansion marks a significant step by ContourGlobal to strengthen its position in the industry, as global demand for renewable energy continues to surge.
With the ME3 TPP, the two active coal-fired units are featured prominently. They deliver critical electricity at the most expensive times when demand peaks. This two-pronged strategy advances the nation’s energy security. Apart from reducing pollution, it opens the door to a more equitable and convenient transition to safe, sustainable, healthy energy practices.