​A new battery energy storage site has been approved for farmland near Wombourne in Staffordshire, following a decision by South Staffordshire Council's planning committee.

The facility will be built on two parcels of land to the east and west of Wombourne Road and will be in place for around 40 years. It is intended to support the transition to renewable energy by storing surplus electricity generated from renewable sources, which can then be supplied to the National Grid when demand is high.

Planning officers supported the proposal, noting that the land identified for the development is of low to moderate agricultural quality. The development is described as temporary, with all infrastructure scheduled for removal after the 40-year period.

Environmental improvements are included in the plans. These feature new tree planting, species-rich grassland and native hedgerow planting to create a buffer around the site. According to planning officers, this will not only preserve the character of the local landscape but also improve biodiversity.

The site is designed to operate quietly and efficiently, with safety and operational standards meeting national guidelines for energy storage systems. Battery storage facilities play a growing role in the UK's energy infrastructure, helping to balance supply and demand and improve the reliability of renewable sources such as wind and solar.

The planning committee approved the scheme during a vote on Tuesday, marking a significant step forward in local efforts to support the wider decarbonisation of the energy system. The development aligns with national policy aims to reduce emissions and support investment in clean energy technology.

Work on the site is expected to begin in the coming months, with operational measures in place to manage construction and protect the surrounding environment throughout the development period.