Ameresco will construct a battery energy storage system (BESS) of up to 50MW to provide Silicon Valley Power (SVP) additional local area capacity for electrical system reliability and flexibility.
The BESS, named Kifer Energy Storage, will be installed adjacent to the existing Kifer Receiving Station within SVP’s service territory.
The Ameresco owned asset, which is scheduled to begin construction in mid-2024, will mark the beginning of a 25-year lease and energy storage agreement with the City of Santa Clara.
Ameresco will develop, own, and operate the battery, while SVP will supply the charging energy.
With a maximum energy capacity of up to 200MWh, the asset will efficiently acquire surplus renewable electricity and provide a clean and reliable resource to integrate renewables, Ameresco said.
Ameresco executive vice president and general manager for the West Region Britta MacIntosh said: “We’re thrilled to announce our partnership with Silicon Valley Power to bring this state-of-the-art battery energy storage system to life.
“This asset installation really is a game-changer, not just for enhancing SVP’s system reliability, but also for advancing and integrating the renewable energy sources of the future.
“We’re proud to be helping Silicon Valley Power make significant strides towards a cleaner and more sustainable future.”
Additionally, the batteries at the facility will participate in the California ISO markets, assist in balancing generation and consumption, reducing congestion and regulating voltage and frequency.
Ameresco and SVP aim for the battery to be fully operational by the fourth quarter of 2025.