Former nuclear site turned into giant battery to power 100,000 homes

EnBW plans to transform part of the former Philippsburg nuclear power site in Germany into one of the country’s largest battery storage facilities, featuring a 400 MW power capacity and 800 MWh energy storage. This system is designed to stabilize the grid by storing excess renewable energy—primarily wind and solar—and supplying electricity during periods of high demand, enough to power around 100,000 households daily. The project is strategically located near a major TransnetBW substation connected to the Ultranet power line, enabling efficient absorption and redistribution of wind-generated electricity from northern to southern Germany. This initiative is part of a broader dual strategy to manage Germany’s increasing reliance on variable renewable energy. Large-scale batteries will address short-term fluctuations in supply and demand, while hydrogen-ready gas power plants will provide backup during extended periods of low renewable output, ensuring grid flexibility and reliability. Although the plan is well-defined, it awaits EnBW’s final investment decision and necessary permits, with potential operation targeted for mid-