In an exciting development for the energy sector, a Florida-based battery energy storage provider is teaming up with Idaho’s largest electric utility to create a groundbreaking 200-MW/800-MWh battery energy storage system (BESS). Prevalon Energy, a joint venture between Mitsubishi Power Americas and EES, recently announced that it has secured a contract with Idaho Power, marking a significant leap forward in the utility’s efforts to bolster grid resiliency. This project, set to roll into full operation next year, is not just another notch in the belt of renewable energy; it’s a pivotal move towards a more sustainable energy future for Idaho.
The centerpiece of this ambitious project is the advanced Prevalon High Density (HD) 511 system. This modular AC battery system packs a punch with 5.11 MWh per 20-feet ISO enclosure, making it compact yet powerful. The system integrates battery enclosures, inverters, medium-voltage transformers, and a highly configurable Energy Management System (EMS). Idaho Power’s decision to initiate a competitive bidding process for battery energy storage reflects a proactive approach to ensuring a reliable supply of electricity, especially during peak demand periods. This BESS project is expected to play a crucial role in efficiently storing energy generated from intermittent renewable resources, aligning perfectly with Idaho Power’s ambitious goal of achieving 100% clean energy by 2045.
Tom Cornell, president and CEO of Prevalon Energy, emphasized the importance of this project in an email to POWER, stating, “This project is pivotal in Idaho’s journey toward a more resilient and sustainable energy future.” His enthusiasm is palpable as he describes the collaboration with Idaho Power as a testament to the dedication and expertise of the Prevalon team. The partnership is not just about technology; it’s about building a future where energy stability is the norm, not the exception.
The scale of this project is noteworthy, as it eclipses the previous largest facility in Idaho, a 150-MW/600-MWh installation in Kuna. The new 800-MWh system will significantly enhance Idaho Power’s capacity to integrate more than 5 GW of wind and solar energy into its transmission system over the next two decades. This is no small feat, and it signals a broader trend in the energy sector where utilities are increasingly recognizing the value of energy storage as a critical component of modern grid management.
Prevalon Energy is not resting on its laurels either. The company, which spun out of Mitsubishi Power Americas last year, boasts a pipeline of over 30 projects representing more than 4 GWh of energy storage. This indicates a robust commitment to innovation and expansion in the battery energy storage landscape. With ongoing collaborations like the one with Idaho Power, the future looks bright for energy storage solutions, which are becoming indispensable as we transition toward a more sustainable energy ecosystem.
This partnership not only bolsters Idaho Power’s infrastructure but also sets a precedent for other utilities across the nation. As we continue to face the challenges of climate change and the need for reliable energy sources, projects like this will be crucial in shaping the future of the energy sector. If Idaho can lead the charge in battery storage, it may well inspire other regions to follow suit, creating a ripple effect that transforms the way we think about energy resilience and sustainability.
