A new agreement between EDP Renewables North America (a subsidiary of EDP) and Salt River Project (SRP) marks a significant milestone in integrating renewable energy in the United States. The Flatland Energy Storage project, with a capacity of 200 MW/800 MWh, will be built near Coolidge, Arizona, and is expected to become operational by 2025.
This lithium-ion battery storage system, manufactured in the United States by Tesla, will supply electricity to over 45,000 homes during peak demand periods. By absorbing excess energy during low-demand times and redistributing it during peaks, the project will help stabilize Arizona’s energy grid.
A Critical Support to the Energy Transition
Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) play a central role in modernizing energy infrastructures and integrating renewable sources. Flatland is designed to address challenges related to renewable energy intermittency, improve energy efficiency, and reinforce grid stability.
Sandhya Ganapathy, Chief Operating Officer of EDP Renewables North America, highlighted that this project represents the largest storage initiative in the EDP Group’s global portfolio. “This project will accelerate the adoption of renewable energy while boosting the resilience and reliability of the U.S. energy grid,” she said.
Economic and Social Impact
Beyond its environmental benefits, the Flatland project is expected to stimulate the local economy. During its construction phase, it will generate 60 jobs and maintain two permanent positions for future operations. Additionally, EDP is committed to supporting local small businesses throughout the project’s lifespan.
The project is located within the Brittlebush Solar Park, also inaugurated this year by EDP, SRP, and Meta. This synergy between facilities will optimize solar energy production by storing electricity and addressing demand when necessary.
Strengthened Partnership
Flatland Energy Storage is the latest achievement in a successful collaboration between EDP Renewables and SRP. The two entities previously worked together on the Brittlebush Solar Park, a 200 MW solar project also located in Coolidge.
According to Bobby Olsen, Deputy General Manager at SRP, this project is part of the company’s efforts to decarbonize its energy portfolio while maximizing the share of renewable energy delivered to customers.
