Who sanctioned battery energy storage systems in Georgia?

The systems are sanctioned by the Georgia Public Service Commission through the Integrated Resource Plan. Credit: Georgia Power. US-based electric utility Georgia Power has commenced construction of new battery energy storage systems (BESS) across the state of Georgia, totalling 765MW capacity.

Will Georgia Power offer more battery energy storage projects?

In that filing, Georgia Power signaled its intention to solicit bids for more storage- another 500 MW- in the near future. Battery energy storage projects are popping up all over the U.S., which added nearly 4 GW of storage capacity in the second quarter of this year alone, according to a recent report.

What is a battery energy storage system?

Battery energy storage systems (BESS) stabilize the electrical grid, ensuring a steady flow of power to homes and businesses regardless of fluctuations from varied energy sources or other disruptions. However, fires at some BESS installations have caused concern in communities considering BESS as a method to support their grids.

How many nickel manganese cobalt lithium-ion batteries were stored at Gateway?

The facility held about 15,000 nickel manganese cobalt lithium-ion batteries. Following the incident, EPA has required the Gateway facility to conduct extensive environmental monitoring during battery handling and disposal operations and submit detailed work plans and progress reports.

Where are battery energy storage projects popping up?

Battery energy storage projects are popping up all over the U.S., which added nearly 4 GW of storage capacity in the second quarter of this year alone, according to a recent report. Most of the new batteries- 97% of them- ended up in ERCOT, WECC, and CAISO territories.

Are lithium battery fires a safety concern?

While BESS technology is designed to bolster grid reliability, lithium battery fires at some installations have raised legitimate safety concerns in many communities. BESS incidents can present unique challenges for host communities and first responders: