Hearing set for Wakefield energy storage proposals

A public hearing is set to begin later place into proposals to install an energy storage system for lithium ion batteries near a village in Wakefield.

Harmony Energy wants to build a battery energy storage system (BESS) on farmland near Heath.

Wakefield Council rejected the application in July 2025, following objections from MPs, councillors and over 1,200 residents.

However, the plans could still go ahead after the company lodged an appeal, which will be discussed at the inquiry at Wakefield Town Hall.

BESS store excess energy created by renewable energy sources and release it when demand is high, helping to ensure a stable and continuous supply even when renewable sources are unavailable or low.

The proposals would see 72 containers installed on the farmland to store the batteries, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

Harmony Energy said the system will "support the UK's transition to a lower-carbon home-grown energy system and ultimately lower bills for consumers".

Opponents argued the scheme could pose a fire risk to residents and harm the local conservation area.

A spokesperson for the I Love Heath Common group previously said: "Thousands of people across the district and beyond enjoy this very special place - the jewel in Wakefield's crown.

"We are doing this for Wakefield's next generation, they deserve to make the happy memories we have all made at Heath."

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