Why do we need battery energy storage systems in Spain?

Due to the large capacity of installed hydroelectric and thermal storage systems and the resilience of the Spanish power grid, the need for Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) in Spain has been relatively low. The lack of a clear regulatory framework for BESS has also hindered its development in Spain so far.

Does Spain need a Bess energy system?

Currently, Spain has 6.3GW of hydroelectric and 1GW of thermal storage capacity installed. In fact, the non-BESS storage capacity in Spain is higher than in any other European country. As a result, the need for BESS to integrate renewable energy sources into the electricity system is less immediate than in the UK, for example.

What is the market energy storage in Spain?

The market energy storage in Spain, particularly in relation to the BESS systems (Battery Energy Storage Systems), is undergoing a dynamic and accelerated evolution. This transformation is driven by the growing need to integrate renewable energy sources into the electricity grid, improve supply stability and optimize energy use.

What is Bess Axpo storage ES1?

BESS Axpo Storage ES1 (Axpo Iberia): A 10 MW / 47.6 MWh lithium-ion battery system in Granda, Siero, connected to the Meres substation via a 1.36-kilometer underground line. According to the latest International Energy Agency (IEA) report, Spain ranks second globally in advanced battery storage project development, trailing only the United States.

How many Bess projects are there in Spain?

In March 2025, UK companies Renewco and Atlantica announced the development of up to 2.2GW of BESS projects across Spain. Other projects in the pipeline primarily involve storage co-located with solar or wind generation. According to BloombergNEF, the total capacity currently in the BESS pipeline is around 3GW.

Will Spain expand its battery energy storage capacity in Asturias?

Spain continues to expand its battery energy storage capacity, with five new BESS projects in Asturias entering public consultation. Two of these projects have already received administrative approval, marking a step forward in the region’s energy transition. New projects under review: