Latvia has taken a significant step towards a greener future with the commissioning of its first utility-scale battery energy storage system (BESS). The 10MW/20MWh BESS, located in Targale, Ventspils region, is integrated with the 58.8MW Targale Wind Park.
Developed by Utilitas Wind, a subsidiary of Estonian energy company Utilitas, the BESS project is a €7 million investment. The system comprises six containerized BESS units, inverters, transformers, and a distribution point container. Hoymiles, a Chinese solar inverter manufacturer, provided the BESS enclosures and power conversion system inverters.
The BESS will enable the storage of excess wind energy generated during periods of high production and its subsequent release to the grid during peak demand or low renewable generation. This will contribute to grid stability and enhance the overall reliability of the power supply.
The opening event was attended by guests and dignitaries including Latvia’s climate and energy minister Kaspars Melnis, who said that hybrid energy parks that combine different clean energy technologies like wind and batteries “will become common practice in the future, ensuring a stable, minimally weather-dependent energy supply.”
Melnis said the project set a high bar for wind farms in the country and noted their importance in the context of Latvia’s energy security.
A Pivotal Moment for Latvia’s Energy Future
The commissioning of this BESS project aligns with Latvia’s broader strategy to transition to a low-carbon economy and strengthen its energy security. By diversifying its energy mix and investing in renewable energy technologies, Latvia aims to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and mitigate climate change.
The recent decision of Latvia, Estonia, and Lithuania to synchronize their power grids with the European grid further underscores the importance of flexible energy solutions such as battery storage. These projects will play a crucial role in ensuring a smooth transition to a more sustainable and resilient energy system.
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