Flexible power generation and battery storage

In simple terms, flexible power generation refers to the ability to quickly increase or decrease electricity output in response to changes in demand, supply, and market conditions. Equinor’s flexible generation business is focused on producing electricity in a way that adapts to the changing needs of energy systems.

Flexible generation assets, such as gas-fired power plants or other dispatchable technologies, are essential. They can fill the gaps when renewable output is low or when demand spikes, helping maintain a stable and reliable electricity supply.

For natural gas power plants, also called CCGTs, implementing carbon capture and storage or hydrogen offers an effective way to reduce CO₂ output. Another important approach is integrating technologies that can store energy from renewable sources for later use – this is where battery storage comes in.

Battery storage plays an important role in enabling flexible power generation. By storing excess electricity and releasing it when needed, battery systems support grid stability and reduce volatility.

This improves supply security and protects the electricity system from price extremes. Battery storage systems also provide services that enhance grid resilience, allowing for more renewable energy sources to be integrated.

These kinds of storage systems are often integrated with renewable energy assets, as is the case for some of our own projects.

For Equinor, investing in flexible generation supports both the transition to a cleaner energy system and the assurance of energy security. We leverage our expertise and extensive experience in gas and power markets to optimise these assets, responding swiftly to market signals and grid needs.

Our trading arm through Danske Commodities will play a crucial role in maximizing value from our power assets. This approach not only supports the integration of renewables but also creates value by participating in energy markets where flexibility is increasingly rewarded.

UK

The Blandford Road battery storage asset (25 MW/ 50 MWh) is in operation in Dorset. Owned by Equinor and developed by Noriker Power.

The Welkin Mill battery storage asset (35 MW/70 MWh) is in operation in the Greater Manchester area in England. Owned by Equinor and developed by Noriker Power.

Saltend power station is a conventional combined cycle gas turbine (CCGT) that uses natural gas. Equinor and operator SSE Thermal are preparing the power plant to use up to 30 percent hydrogen from 2027, with an ambition to eventually increase to 100 percent hydrogen operation.

Net Zero Teesside Power (NTZ) is a combined cycle gas turbine electricity generating station with an abated capacity of up to 860 megawatts output with CO₂ capture plant. NTZ Power is a joint venture between Equinor and bp, with an expected start up late 2020’s.

Peterhead CC power station is a flexible gas-fired power station based in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. Operator SSE Thermal and Equinor are exploring opportunities for decarbonised power generation at Peterhead, developing plans for a new power station at the site equipped with carbon capture technology.

The proposed Keadby Next Generation power station, located in North Lincolnshire, could be one of the world’s first 100% hydrogen-fuelled power station, producing zero emissions at the point of combustion. Equinor and SSE Thermal are developing this hydrogen-enabled power station

US

Sunset Ridge Energy Center (10 MW/20 MWh) in Frio County, Texas, started operations in 2025.

Citrus Flatts battery storage project (100 MW/200 MWh) in Cameron County, Texas is under construction. The project is expected to start commercial operations in 2026.

NOVEC projects (80 MW/160 MWh) in Northern Virginia are under construction and are expected to start commercial operations in 2026.

All projects fully owned by Equinor and operated by Equinor’s subsidiary East Point Energy.

Northern Europe

The Miłosław solar plant (20 MW) and the Zawiercie battery storage facility (8 MW/ 16 MWh) are under construction in Poland. Owned by Equinor and operated by Equinor’s subsidiary Wento.

A battery storage facility co-located with the Ingerslev Å solar plant in Jutland in Denmark is under construction. Owned by Equinor and operated by Equinor’s subsidiary BeGreen.