The European Commission has cleared Slovenia's state aid scheme to support a minimum of 370 MWh of new standalone battery energy storage capacity
It is aimed at improving grid stability, reliability, and renewable energy integration
According to the Commission, funds will be offered as direct grants until 2030
The European Commission has green-signaled a €59 million investment in Slovenia’s state aid scheme for battery energy storage systems (BESS). Aligned with the objectives of the Clean Industrial Deal, this will support a minimum of 370 MWh of new storage capacity.
This standalone battery energy storage capacity will integrate renewable energy sources in the national electricity system as Slovenia seeks increased stability, reliability, and efficiency.
The aid will be awarded as direct grants under a defined budget and volume, based on project investment costs, and will be granted by December 31, 2030.
The Commission said the scheme – funded through the Just Transition Fund and the ETS Modernisation Fund – is necessary, appropriate, and proportionate to accelerate the transition to a net-zero economy and support the Clean Industrial Deal.
According to the Commission, the scheme complies with the Clean Industrial State Aid Framework (CISAF) that enables EU member states to accelerate the roll-out of renewable energy projects (see EU Adopts New State Aid Framework To Boost Renewables).
“With this €59 million scheme, Slovenia is accelerating the deployment of storage technologies. More storage capacity will enable better integration of the renewable energy sources in the power system and help ensure security of electricity supply for Slovenians,” said Teresa Ribera, Executive Vice-President for Clean, Just, and Competitive Transition.
Recently, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) approved up to €70 million for five large-scale BESS projects for Slovenia’s NGEN Energetske Rešitve (see EBRD Backs 302 MW Battery Storage Projects In Europe).
Slovenian electricity market operator Borzen is also offering €10 million in funds to support businesses that are planning to install BESS, and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
