Dutch energy storage firm Return has started construction on the 100 MW/200 MWh battery energy storage system in Waddinxveen, which will be the first project of the size to connect to the TenneT Netherlands high-voltage network in 2026. Vattenfall will manage and optimize half of the system’s capacity under an eight-year contract.

Bulgaria’s standalone energy storage tender, which aimed to procure at least 3 GWh of cumulative usable capacity, ultimately awarded more than three times that amount.

The competition in the development of large-capacity cells is heating up, with the industry’s top player stepping up to shape the new standard in the battery energy storage space.

Dutch transmission system operator (TSO) TenneT has unlocked over 9 GW of high-voltage grid capacity by introducing flexible contracts for off-peak hours, prompting a surge of interest from battery energy storage developers eager to secure grid access. While these contracts offer notable advantages, Aurora Energy Research says that battery storage projects continue to face challenges due to grid fees, which remain significantly higher than in other European markets.

Analysts see negative impacts across the board, but EV and battery energy storage industries seem particularly vulnerable to US President Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs.

The Chinese manufacturer has unveiled its latest generation commercial and industrial (C&I) energy storage system, Chess Plus. The product is currently available in China and the US, with the European version under evaluation.

The Swedish manufacturer has launched an integrated all-in-one system which features a 450-540 kWh battery energy storage component and a 240 kW DC fast charger. The system is designed for powering sites, whether in grid-connected or island mode.

The call for applications for the Electricity Storage and Related Infrastructure Programme, aimed at enhancing the stability of the Polish power grid, will remain open until May 30, 2025.

The Chinese battery maker has launched its next-gen lithium iron phosphate cell which can be integrated with both 1,500 V and 2,000 V platforms. It plans to establish mass production by June 30 with an annual manufacturing capacity layout of more than 80 GWh.

The fleet of energy storage projects in Europe, including both pumped hydro and battery energy storage systems of all sizes, is expanding rapidly. This growth is set to continue at a strong pace through 2030, fueled by technological advancements, supportive policies, and other key factors.