New Scottish Guidance for Battery Energy Storage Planning

The Scottish Government has issued new guidance to support more consistent and transparent planning for battery energy storage (BESS) projects. Although it doesn’t introduce new policy, it brings together practical advice that helps applicants and decision‑makers navigate the key considerations in BESS planning applications, including site selection, design, environmental constraints, and early engagement.

The guidance emphasises the importance of proportionate assessments and clear communication, particularly as energy storage development continues to expand and technologies evolve. It also highlights the role of early, constructive dialogue with planning authorities and communities — a theme that aligns with current expectations around BESS environmental considerations, local context and infrastructure design.

For developers, planners and landowners, the document provides a more predictable framework for preparing and reviewing BESS site selection work, helping projects progress with fewer avoidable delays.

If you’re working on a battery energy storage project in Scotland and need support with planning, noise, air quality, hydrology or other environmental assessments, contact us here  — our team can guide you through every stage of the process.