Xcel to test battery storage, microgrid systems in Denver for solar
Xcel Energy, like many other utility companies, is looking for ways to both increase the reliability and resiliency of its grid while increasing the amount of renewable resources in its generation mix.
Xcel has 320 MW of solar power on its system and has committed to add 170 MW of new solar in Colorado.
As part of that commitment in Colorado, Xcel is testing technologies, such as battery storage systems. At the Panasonic test site, Xcel will install a utility-scale solar power system and one large battery at a location near Denver airport.
The Panasonic project will have the capability to be operated as a microgrid, which can provide backup power in emergencies, as well as connected to the regional grid.
Panasonic is relocating its U.S. headquarters to Denver from Newark, N.J.
At the second project, the Stapleton project, Xcel will install six batteries at customer’s homes that already have rooftop solar power systems installed.
Under an agreement reached with several parties, including the staff of the Public Utility Commission and the state Office of Consumer Counsel, among others, Xcel will provide milestone reports to review the costs for the projects and will make the data from the projects available to the PUC and to the public.
