FPL Builds its Largest Solar Powered Battery Energy Storage System

Source: · T&D WORLD · | December 17, 2021

By deploying energy from the battery when there is a higher demand for electricity, FPL will offset the need to run other power plants

Source: T&D World

Florida Power and Light Company (FPL) tonight unveiled the world’s largest solar-powered battery at a time when the system will be needed most: after dark. During a commissioning ceremony, FPL illuminated the night sky with a light and drone show powered by the newly commissioned FPL Manatee Energy Storage Center.

“Since embarking on the largest solar expansion in the nation, the company has also installed more than 13 million solar panels and is already 45% of the way toward reaching our ‘30-by-30’ goal to install 30 million solar panels across the state of Florida by 2030. What makes me most proud is that these projects are cost-effective for customers, which helps keep bills low over the long term. This battery is another example of how FPL has become a leader in clean energy and sustainability without sacrificing affordability or reliability.” said Eric Silagy, FPL president and CEO.

The newly operational battery will enable customers to enjoy the benefits of solar even when the sun’s not shining, such as at night or on a cloudy day. When the sun’s rays are strongest, the battery system will store extra solar energy produced by the existing Manatee Solar Energy Center and feed that power to the grid when it’s needed most. By deploying energy from the battery when there is a higher demand for electricity, FPL will offset the need to run other power plants – further reducing emissions and saving customers money through avoided fuel costs.