Introduction
In a transformative leap for Greece’s energy landscape, Helleniq Renewables, a subsidiary of the distinguished Greek oil conglomerate Helleniq Energy, has successfully completed the construction of an extraordinary 100 MW / 200 MWh battery energy storage system (BESS) at their industrial facilities in Thessaloniki, northern Greece. This monumental project not only represents a significant milestone for Helleniq Energy as their first utility-scale BESS but also stands as one of the largest energy storage projects in Greece and throughout southeast Europe.
Project Overview
The impressive endeavor involved a total investment of approximately €50 million (USD $56 million). Spanning a vast area of about 100,000 square meters, the installation incorporates lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries housed in 56 sophisticated liquid-cooled containers. Uniquely, the system is distributed across three distinct battery system areas, illustrating the project’s complexity and scale.
The Role of Huawei
Initially, the specific supplier of the BESS was not disclosed. However, ESS News later identified it as a Huawei ESS, part of the innovative LUNA2000 series. This cutting-edge technology is seamlessly integrated with Greece’s national transmission network and is meticulously designed to perform at least one complete charge-discharge cycle every day, ensuring consistent and reliable energy storage.
Grid Connection and Infrastructure
To effectively integrate the BESS into the national grid, Helleniq Energy constructed a state-of-the-art 33 / 150 kV substation and implemented an approximately five-kilometer underground high-voltage transmission line connecting to the Thessaloniki extra-high-voltage (EHV) center. This project was a pivotal part of the first competitive tender process orchestrated by the Regulatory Authority for Waste, Energy, and Water (RAAEY).
“With the completion of its first electricity storage project, Helleniq Energy is taking another decisive step in implementing its strategy to build a strong power and renewables pillar, as an integrated Group with a strong presence across the full spectrum of energy activities,” said Helleniq Energy deputy CEO George Alexopoulos.
Future Developments
Building on the success of this pioneering project, Helleniq Energy is advancing another significant battery storage project in Florina, northern Greece. This upcoming initiative will feature a substantial capacity of 50 MW / 200 MWh and is anticipated to reach completion shortly, further enhancing Greece’s renewable energy infrastructure.
Strategic Goals
Helleniq Energy has set ambitious targets, aiming to achieve 1.5 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2028 and exceeding 2 GW by 2030. According to Sotiris Kapellos, CEO of Helleniq Renewables, the company has already developed a robust portfolio of renewables and battery storage projects exceeding 6 GW, with over 700 MW currently operational.
This strategic initiative underscores Helleniq Energy’s unwavering commitment to sustainability and innovation within the energy sector, reinforcing its position as a leader in the global transition towards renewable energy sources.
Conclusion
As Helleniq Energy continues to spearhead advancements in energy storage and renewables, their strategic alliances and pioneering projects like the Thessaloniki BESS solidify their role as a trailblazer in the energy sector. By embracing cutting-edge technology and committing to substantial growth in renewable capacities, Helleniq Energy is not only contributing to Greece’s energy independence but also setting a benchmark for sustainable practices worldwide.
Explore the future of energy with Helleniq Energy and join the movement towards a sustainable and innovative energy landscape.
