Published 10 days after a fire at Vistra's 300-MW battery installation near Santa Cruz, the California Public Utilities Commission's proposal would set new standards for energy storage facilities.
Are California's battery energy storage systems going up?
For Immediate Release: October 24, 2023 SACRAMENTO — New data show California is surging forward with the buildout of battery energy storage systems with more than 6,600 megawatts (MW) online, enough electricity to power 6.6 million homes for up to four hours.
How long does battery storage last in California?
Long-duration energy storage can currently provide power for up to 100 hours. California has more than 13,300 MW of battery storage installed today. Within the past six years, the state has grown its battery storage capacity by more than 15 times, up from just 770 MW in 2019.
How much battery storage does California have?
California has more than 13,300 MW of battery storage installed today. Within the past six years, the state has grown its battery storage capacity by more than 15 times, up from just 770 MW in 2019. The recent surge in battery storage has significantly enhanced California's ability to maintain grid stability during extreme weather.
Why is California boosting battery storage projects?
SACRAMENTO – California is boosting battery storage projects across the state – an important part of the state's transition to 100% clean electricity. California today approved a $42 million grant to International Electric Power to build a long-duration energy storage project at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton in San Diego County.
What will California's new battery standards mean for energy storage facilities?
In the wake of a spate of fires at battery storage facilities across the state, the California Public Utilities Commission will soon vote on establishing new standards for maintaining and operating them. If passed, the proposal also increases oversight for emergency response at energy storage sites that use batteries.
How do battery storage facilities work in California?
Battery storage facilities are considered a vital piece of California's target to derive 100% of its electricity from carbon-free sources by 2045 or earlier. Commonly stacked in rows within enclosures, batteries take electricity that's generated during the daytime hours from solar, store that energy and send it to the electric grid in the evening.