Arizona Deploys Largest Grid Battery Storage Facility Ahead of Peak Demand

Arizona's largest grid battery storage project, Papago Storage, has gone online, providing 1,200 MWh of electricity to APS, the state's largest utility, ahead of peak summer demand. The project is part of a three-project deal with APS that will provide 1,800 MWh of storage and 150 MW of solar power, enough to power about 72,000 homes for four hours and provide year-round solar for another 24,000 homes.

Arizona's largest grid battery storage project, Papago Storage, has gone online, providing 1,200 MWh of electricity to APS, the state's largest utility, ahead of peak summer demand. The project is part of a three-project deal with APS that will provide 1,800 MWh of storage and 150 MW of solar power, enough to power about 72,000 homes for four hours and provide year-round solar for another 24,000 homes [1].

The Papago Storage facility, developed by Recurrent Energy, a subsidiary of Canadian Solar Inc., is the first of three projects to become operational. The project is designed to meet rising electricity demand during the summer season and contribute to Arizona's energy infrastructure [1].

Derek Seaman, APS Director of Resource Acquisition, stated, "Summer is here, and we are ready to serve APS customers with the energy they need when they need it. The Papago Storage project is part of our diverse and balanced energy mix, helping us continue to provide Arizona with top-tier reliability and affordable service" [1].

Kevin Thompson, Chair of the Arizona Corporation Commission, noted, "I commend Recurrent Energy for completing their 300MW Papago Energy Storage Project. Bringing online one of our state's largest battery storage projects during this critical time when energy demand is growing rapidly will help our utilities execute an all-of-the-above response to that demand and further diversify Arizona's energy resources" [1].

Arizona House Majority Leader Michael Carbone added, "I congratulate Recurrent Energy on this tremendous energy storage achievement. With our favorable business climate, Arizona's economy is attracting development from all over the world, and we must provide the energy to accommodate this incredible growth. The Papago Storage Project will play an important role in Arizona's energy future" [1].

In addition to strengthening grid reliability, the project also contributes to the local community through tax revenues and direct support. Through its Community CaRE (Community and Renewable Energy) Program, Recurrent Energy has donated to the Harquahala Fire District and Arlington Elementary School in Maricopa County [1].

Ismael Guerrero, CEO of Recurrent Energy, stated, "The commissioning of Papago Storage marks a major milestone in our collaboration with APS to strengthen Arizona's energy infrastructure. We're proud to deliver flexible capacity that meets the state's growing energy needs and grateful for APS's continued partnership. As we begin operations, we remain committed to building long-term value for the local community and our partners" [1].

References:
[1] https://finance.yahoo.com/news/recurrent-energy-energizes-1-200-110000566.html
[2] https://www.marketscreener.com/quote/stock/CANADIAN-SOLAR-INC-36332/news/Recurrent-Energy-Energizes-1-200-MWh-Storage-Facility-in-Arizona-Ahead-of-Peak-Summer-Demand-50446349/