A major new long-duration energy storage project in East Sussex is set to strengthen Britain’s renewable energy capacity, while reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels.
Invinity Energy Systems has completed construction of the Copwood VFB Energy Hub in Uckfield, which will become Europe’s largest vanadium flow battery installation when it connects to the grid later this year.
The 20.7MWh system is paired with a 3MW solar array, allowing excess solar energy generated during the day to be stored and used during evenings and peak demand periods.
The project highlights the growing role of long-duration energy storage in supporting a lower-carbon electricity system.
By shifting renewable energy to periods of high demand, the site will help reduce the need for gas-fired generation, improving energy security and lowering emissions.
Unlike conventional lithium-ion batteries, vanadium flow batteries use a water-based electrolyte and are designed for decades of operation without fire risk.
The technology is intended to provide stable, reliable storage for renewable electricity as Britain increases wind and solar generation.
The project also supports UK manufacturing and clean technology jobs.
Invinity’s batteries are assembled at facilities in Motherwell and Bathgate, reinforcing Britain’s growing energy transition supply chain.
Jonathan Marren, CEO of Invinity Energy Systems, said: “By building Europe’s largest long-duration battery here in Britain, and manufacturing it in Scotland, we’re showing that the clean energy transition can strengthen our energy security, cut system costs and create skilled industrial jobs at home.”
Copyright © 2026 Energy Live News LtdELN