NEC Energy Solutions has secured a contract from GIGA Storage for a 12MW energy storage project in the Netherlands.

NEC will supply the battery, while GIGA Storage will own and manage the system and Windnet will own the local smart grid.

The power storage project will be a part of the Wageningen University & Research’s (WUR) Test Centre for Renewable Resources and will be situated in Lelystad, near the Neushoorntocht wind farm.

The GIGA Rhino project is expected to enhance the renewable energy capacity on the grid and balance the local smart grid.

NEC Energy Solutions EMEA sales director Mark Moreton said: “The GIGA Rhino system is our first project in the Netherlands and we are thrilled to partner with GIGA Storage, WUR and Windnet.

“This is a landmark project since it is not only the most powerful energy storage system in the Netherlands, but it will also stabilise the grid and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

“As we continue to expand across Europe, we look forward to working with Giga Storage on similar projects throughout the region.”

More than $4m has been raised, which will be used for the system’s construction and operation.

Additionally, the GIGA Rhino project is also the recipient of a subsidy from the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) within the framework of the Demonstration Energy and Climate Innovation scheme, also known as DEI +.

Once completed, GIGA Rhino is expected to provide grid resiliency for nearly 5,000 homes.

It will also be used for Frequency Containment Reserve (FCR) and imbalance and curtailment services.

GIGA Storage CEO Ruud Nijs said: “Storage and control of electricity are crucial for a reliable and affordable energy system. The GIGA Rhino energy storage system is the first step in making it possible to close down coal-fired power stations.”