Drax has applied to convert two of its remaining coal-fired units to gas and build a battery storage plant in the UK.

It plans to create up to 3.6GW of new gas generation capacity and 200MW of battery storage.

The energy company said the upgrade would enhance Drax Power Station’s flexible and responsive capability.

However, it added the project would only go ahead with a “positive investment decision” and a 15-year contract in the UK’s Capacity Market auctions.

All coal-fired power stations are to be closed by 2025 under the government’s plans.