Innovative Soil Solutions: A Win for environment and efficiency at Monk Fryston

At Morrison Energy Services’ Renewable Connections, we are delighted that our 320MW battery energy storage system (BESS) project, on behalf of SSE Renewables, is breaking new ground - quite literally - in environmental responsibility and project efficiency.

Our team has implemented a cutting-edge soil stabilisation technique across the Monk Fryston project in Yorkshire, that's saving resources and minimising impact on the environment. Since commencing work on the project earlier this year, progress has been made establishing and preparing the ‘green field’ site, with a size equivalent to about eight football pitches, for the major works that will follow. This has involved extensive works to level the site, create access and consider the extensive ecology that a rural location provides.

Working with Soil Science Ltd., our team has introduced a soil stabilisation solution that transforms subsoil into a base that’s as hard as concrete but sustainable. As the material can be broken down afterwards and re-used for agriculture, this helps reduce waste.

Initial estimates suggested the site would require approximately 50 truck journeys daily for two weeks to transport materials in and out. The new method has significantly reduced this number, saving over 500 truck movements, leading to a marked reduction in both local disturbance and carbon emissions.

Unlike traditional methods that might leave a former site unfit for re-use, our stabilised compound area can be returned to agricultural use. We are working with the farm landowners to adjust soil pH levels for their preferred crops, so that when we return the land for agricultural use, it will be ideal soil for food production.

Our Monk Fryston project is a testament to our commitment to innovation, efficiency, and environmental stewardship. As we continue to push the boundaries of what's possible in sustainable development, projects like this pave the way for a greener, more responsible future in energy infrastructure.

Andy Clark, Contract Director, Morrison Energy Services’ Renewable Connections, said: “Work on this flagship project commenced off-site last autumn as we commenced extensive design and procurement activity.”

“Since commencing on site in the spring of this year, our team has made significant progress in preparing the site for the upcoming works that will include the extensive and complex construction and electrical infrastructure works associated with such a large-scale battery storage facility. We look forward to continuing to work with SSE Renewables and our supply chain partners to deliver the ongoing phases of the works.”

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