Plans unveiled to build battery storage compound in Eildon Hills National Scenic Area
Last updated 8th May 2025
It's claimed plans to build a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in a National Scenic Area next to a stretch of the Southern Upland Way, which boasts views over the Eildon Hills and River Tweed, does "NOT constitute a permanent loss of agricultural land", as the site can easily be restored when it's decommissioned - in 40 years.
A consultation event due to take place in Gattonside Village Hall yesterday (Wednesday) was cancelled at short notice due to what the applicant describes as "unforeseen circumstances".
But a request for an environmental assessment has now been submitted to Scottish Borders Council.
Green Switch Energy wants to build 20 battery containers, 10 transformers, a substation and new access road on land north-east of Sawmill Cottage, off the B6360 road, east of Lowood Bridge.
If approved, a 2.4m high mesh fence, protected by CCTV and lighting, would also be constructed around the compound, which borders the long distance walking route.
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It's claimed the development would be capable of generating up to 42 megawatts (MW) of electricity. This would have the capacity to power up to approximately 8,400 typical households and result in a saving of up to 3,351 tonnes of CO2 each year.
But concerns are being raised over the impact it could have on the local landscape and wildlife, as well as any potential fire risk.
A campaign group - notogattonsidebatteries.org - has been set up to oppose the plans. One objector posted: "Blows my mind that this is being considered, especially considering how picky the planners are about replacement windows for houses in Gattonside."
The applicant insists the plans would "not prohibit the use or harm" the Southern Upland Way and that it is "exploring options to improvement linkages in the area".
A report with the submission states: “The site has been selected for the proposed development due to its proximity to the Galashiels Substation, which is approximately 2.2km to the west.
"Due to the terrain of the site, significant effects in relation to accidents and disasters are not anticipated. Any electrical installation, by its nature, will carry some degree of electric shock or fire risk, although fires caused by BESS are rare."
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