ContourGlobal has officially launched a 202 megawatt (MW) battery energy storage system (BESS) plant in Bulgaria. Fifty percent is a remarkable achievement and serves as a testament to the country’s evolving energy landscape. The facility stores 500 megawatt-hours (MWh) of total capacity and it is currently in commercial operation. It is a willing and robust participant in the day-ahead and intraday markets throughout the nation’s wholesale electricity market.
The BESS facility spans 25,000 square meters in the Stara Zagora region. This area is a strategic focal point for industry and energy, set behind the fence line of one of the ME3 TPP’s coal-fired power plants. It features the latest battery innovations as evidenced by the 110 BYD-supplied battery skids. Moreover, it brings with it 28 integrated power conversion systems and transformer units.
ContourGlobal is on the move and growing aggressively. For the second phase of the project, they are in the process of constructing a second 202MW BESS at the same site. This second development will take the deep learnings from the first facility to improve its operational efficiency and capacity.
Speaking at the project’s commissioning ceremony, Antonio Cammisecra, CEO of ContourGlobal, underscored the significance of the project. The event attracted high profile attendees, including Bulgaria’s Minister of Energy, Zhecho Stankov, and Eng. Planen Barakova, Deputy Mayor of Galabovo.
“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
The new BESS facility lies at the heart of strengthening Bulgaria’s energy security. The two remaining active coal-fired units at ME3 TPP continue to supply electricity during peak demand periods, ensuring a reliable energy supply for the country.
In addition to discussing Cammisecra’s vision for the company, Cammisecra pointed to the company’s expanding role in battery energy storage.
“We have built a sizeable presence in battery energy storage, with this project in Bulgaria representing a key contribution to our 3GWh portfolio of operating BESS projects.” – Antonio Cammisecra
ContourGlobal’s smart strategies go well beyond Bulgaria. Earlier this month, the company closed on the successful acquisition of an existing 446 megawatt-peak solar photovoltaic portfolio in the United States. This diversification highlights ContourGlobal’s progressive vision to lead the industry in developing sustainable energy solutions around the world.