Last month, we saw plans by Firstway Energy to create a massive energy storage system in Bexley. There was a backlash to the proposals, with a number of different concerns about the site, fire safety, and the impact of the development. Let’s have a look to see what could happen and the major criticisms. Then, if you want some help with guaranteed rent in Bexley, you can reach out to us.

The plans

Firstway Energy is an interesting company. They specialise in large solar farms and battery energy storage, focusing on sustainability and clean energy. They’ve been successful recently, including getting consent for three BESS sites earlier in the year. In total they are looking to advance 50 sites and eventually provide enough energy for millions of homes, businesses, and communities.

The proposal for Bexley is to create a facility with capacity up to 212 MW (megawatts). Interestingly, it would take energy from the grid at low periods when there is excess supply. The power would be stored on site in batteries, ready to feed back to the grid at peak times.

Controversy

As we said, there was a backlash to the plans. One of the major criticisms is the proposed site is Greenfield land. Firstway Energy is proposing to develop it, operate the BESS for 40 years, and then look to revert it back. However, that plan has been criticised, with claims the land would become Brownfield and probably face redevelopment into housing or other uses. That may not necessarily be a negative in the future. If you need guaranteed rent in Bexley, talk to us.

Another concern is the impact on local people. The site is quite close to a residential area. There are fears that it would mean a big risk to the health and wellbeing of residents, especially children. Trying to ease the fears, Firstway Energy said BESS systems are safe and don’t release electromagnetic fields, harmful gases, or pollution.

A third fear is the impact on fire safety. One of the downsides of electric batteries, especially lithium-ion, is faults or emergencies can result in fires and even explosions. Thermal runaway is a particular risk, with dozens of incidents recorded around the world at BESS facilities. The concern is a fire here so close to a residential area could put lives at risk. Firstway Energy said the designs include several safeguards, such as fire suppression and air cooling measures. They’ve got inputs from the London Fire Brigade too.

What happens now?

It will be up to Bexley Council to decide whether to give the plans permission. They will have to think about the benefits of the project and the negatives, including the potential safety hazards and impact on the environment. If they do give a green light, the expectation is it will take 12 months for construction.

Talk to us about guaranteed rent in Bexley

There are many fantastic places to live in London, some with a really impressive amount of greenery. Bexley ticks that box and has lots of other advantages, including affordable homes, great transport links into London and Kent, and some lovely hidden gems. It is definitely worth a look, and has been enjoying a steady increase in demand and property values.

We’re here to help if you are thinking of investing or have assets in any part of Bexley already. Our goal is to make it as easy as possible to achieve a stable income for homes. We specialise in guaranteed rent because it is reliable, beneficial from organisational and financial perspectives, and helps the local areas too.

So, get in touch today and find out why arranging guaranteed rent in Bexley with us is a great idea. We’re flexible, offering various terms for any kind of homes.