Alabama’s First Utility-Scale Battery Storage System Coming to Walker County
By Pat Byington
LAST UPDATED 03/06/25
Reviewed by: Nathan Watson
Reading time: 2 minutes
Alabama Power is set to construct the state’s first utility-scale battery energy storage system at the former Plant Gorgas site in Walker County. This facility, covering 7 acres, will operate as a standalone system that connects directly to the electric grid—an extensive network of high-voltage wires and equipment that transports significant amounts of electricity throughout the state.
The battery facility will have the capacity to store up to 150 megawatts (MW) of electricity, which is enough to power approximately 9,000 homes. The system will utilize lithium-ion phosphate batteries with a duration of 2 hours, capable of recharging in just over that time.
Batteries Support Clean Energy
“Batteries can charge when energy costs are lower and discharge when energy costs are higher, helping to keep costs down. They can also supply energy to our system quickly in response to changing conditions. We are excited to learn how battery storage technology can best fit into our system to reliably serve our customers,” stated Brandon Dillard, Senior Vice President of Generation.
For customers interested in clean energy, this battery system will help integrate weather-dependent resources such as solar power into Alabama Power’s overall generation mix.
Reuse of Alabama Power’s Plant Gorgas
Alabama Power is also pleased to be repurposing the Plant Gorgas site, which first began power production in 1917. “Plant Gorgas and Walker County hold a special place in our company’s history. The reuse of this site reaffirms our support of the communities we have long served, ensuring sustainable solutions that honor our past while looking to the future,” said Jill Stork, Vice President of the Western Division.
Construction of the battery energy storage system is expected to commence in 2025, with a projected completion date in 2027.
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Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/alabama-launches-first-utility-scale-battery-storage-system-in-walker-county/
