Ameresco, Inc., (NYSE: AMRC), a leading cleantech integrator specializing in energy efficiency and renewable energy, today announced that it has secured additional large Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) projects continuing its track record as one of the industry’s top go-to partners for grid tied BESS installations. These four co-located energy storage projects, to be sited at gas power plants owned by Middle River Power (MRP), an independent power company wholly owned by Avenue Capital, are designed to add 379 megawatt-hours (MWHs) to the California grid. The installation of these large-scale energy storage systems will enhance the efficiency of MRP’s natural gas power plants, leading to emission reduction and the provision of needed resource adequacy capacity to the California power grid. The four energy storage projects are in support California’s efforts to achieve the 100% renewable energy goal by 2045.
“Energy storage is pivotal for ensuring resource adequacy and resiliency in California,” said Britta MacIntosh, EVP and General Manager of West and Europe Regions, Ameresco. “To better prepare California for unforeseen disruptions to the grid, our team will work in concert with Middle River Power to fully integrate emission-reducing battery energy storage technology into four of its California-based gas power plants to ensure we meet California’s clean energy goals.”
MRP currently operates ten natural gas fired power plants across the country, eight of which are based in California. The organization has twelve additional projects in active development and has completed two development projects in California that include a utility grid-scale solar plus storage project and standalone storage project co-located with a geothermal facility.
“We’re thrilled to work with Ameresco to bring these innovative projects to fruition, integrating additional renewable energy while enhancing a resilient grid. The energy storage assets allow for the shifting of solar energy from the middle of the day to supply the grid during evening peak hours, while maintaining our natural gas facilities as a flexible, reliable backstop,” said Mark Kubow, CEO of Middle River Power. “We are excited to introduce our first tranche of projects that takes such a meaningful step in helping California in the transition to more renewable resources.”
The work is expected to kick off in Summer 2023 and reach completion in Q3 of 2024.
