Kilmarnock South

Kilmarnock South is a 350MW, 4-hour BESS site located in South Ayrshire, Scotland, due to become operational in 2027.

The site has been developed by Noriker Power, who have undertaken all origination and early-stage development work. Now, as the project prepares to enter construction in early 2026, Noriker has structured the site and is providing the EPC-M service.

The site has a unique design, shaped by both technical challenges and natural features. The land sits on a slope and is intersected by overhead power lines. Noriker has worked closely with ecology specialists to create a distinctive pattern of terraces, integrating the battery units into the natural topography and introducing planted areas throughout the site to maximise biodiversity.

TKilmarnock South will become one of the earliest large-scale BESS projects in the UK. Delivering a project at this scale demands a high level of expertise, particularly in managing high voltages and ensuring safe control systems and a robust design. These engineering challenges are considered from the outset, with key insights built directly into the site layout.

As a fully integrated BESS service provider, Noriker has not only developed the site and guided it through planning, but has also provided structuring services. Working closely with an EPC under a pre-construction services agreement, Noriker produced detailed early-stage designs that enabled the timely procurement of long-lead equipment, helping to safeguard the project timeline.

Noriker's integrated structure means teams across the company collaborate continuously, co-developing the site through a holistic approach that includes:

• Building and sustaining a relationship with the landowner
• Early site design by experienced engineers
• A thorough understanding of the planning process and detailed review of conditions
• Ongoing engineering review of design progression including analysis of key equipment selection
• A dedicated project management team with in-depth knowledge of grid, planning, and timeline constraints, enabling detailed risk analysis
• In-house capacity market modelling to advise on the best asset management strategy
• Close coordination with EPCs and suppliers to optimise the project programme
• Monthly meetings with the Transmission Operator to ensure programme alignment and situational awareness

Construction is due to begin in early 2026, with commercial operation expected in late 2027.