Portland General Electric Launches 475 MW Battery Systems
PGE Powers Up New Battery Energy Storage Systems
Portland General Electric (PGE) has made an impressive leap forward with the launch of three new battery energy storage systems that together add 475 megawatts (MW) of capacity. This significant enhancement is designed to support grid reliability and keep energy costs manageable for local residents.
The newly operational systems, accumulating over 1.9 gigawatt hours (GWh) of dispatchable energy, can provide electricity to approximately 300,000 homes during peak demand periods or when traditional power sources are disrupted due to weather or other unforeseen events. This capacity strengthens PGE’s commitment to delivering essential power when it is needed most.
Enhanced Energy Flexibility and Reliability
PGE’s advancements in battery energy storage represent a pivotal moment for the company. These systems are crucial not only for daily peak hour power delivery but also for balancing energy supply and demand. Darrington Outama, PGE Senior Director of Energy Supply, highlighted, "Batteries play an essential role in the flexibility of our energy generation portfolio, allowing us to meet the fluctuating needs of our customers when it matters most. This innovation leads to stable and reliable power at the lowest cost."
Strategic Locations for Optimal Impact
Strategically positioned at key substations, these four-hour lithium-ion systems in North Portland, Troutdale, and Hillsboro are integral to PGE’s overall system. They align the generation and consumption of electricity effectively, alleviating stress on the grid. By reducing the necessity for costly short-term electricity purchases, these facilities help stabilize energy prices while enabling better integration of renewable energy sources like wind and solar.
Facility Highlights
Of the three battery facilities, two notable projects emerged from PGE's competitive 2021 All-Source Request for Proposals:
- Seaside: A 200 MW facility, owned by PGE, located in North Portland, developed through a fixed-cost agreement with Eolian, L.P. This facility went live in the summer of 2025.
- Sundial: A 200 MW facility situated in Troutdale, developed by Eolian and managed by NextEra Energy Resources through a long-term storage capacity agreement with PGE, which commenced operations at the end of 2024.
- Constable: This 75 MW battery facility, also owned by PGE, is based in Hillsboro and was constructed under a detailed engineering agreement with Mortenson, commencing commercial operations in late 2024.
Aaron Zubot, CEO of Eolian, noted the transformative potential of these battery systems, claiming they enhance the efficiency of existing transmission lines and circumvent the need for expensive upgrades, thereby representing an economical growth solution through established infrastructure.
Investment in Clean Energy Growth
In conjunction with these facilities, PGE has also completed a 17 MW Coffee Creek Battery Storage system in Wilsonville in 2024. The cumulative effect of these developments elevates PGE’s total large-scale battery storage capacity to an impressive 492 MW.
About Portland General Electric
Portland General Electric (NYSE: POR) has been a trusted energy provider since 1889, generating and distributing electricity to over 950,000 customers across a vibrant community. The company is focused on delivering safe, affordable, and increasingly clean energy while updating its systems to meet evolving demands. With the top-ranked voluntary renewable energy program in the nation, PGE is diligently working towards an ambitious goal of reducing emissions by 80% by 2030 and a full 100% by 2040. In 2024, PGE’s employees and partners contributed significantly to the community with over 23,000 volunteer hours and $5.5 million in donations to nearly 480 nonprofit organizations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total capacity of the new PGE battery systems?
The new battery systems provide a total of 475 megawatts (MW) of capacity, sufficient to power approximately 300,000 homes for four hours during peak demand.
What are the benefits of battery energy storage for PGE customers?
Battery energy storage enhances grid reliability, allows for better energy management during peak times, and helps stabilize energy costs for customers.
When did these new facilities become operational?
The Seaside and Sundial facilities achieved commercial operation in 2025 and late 2024, respectively, while the Constable facility went operational at the end of 2024.
How do these systems contribute to renewable energy integration?
These battery systems help incorporate renewable energy sources like wind and solar into the grid by storing excess energy and releasing it when needed, ensuring a balanced supply.
What is PGE's commitment to clean energy?
PGE aims to reduce its emissions by 80% by 2030 and achieve complete carbon neutrality by 2040, promoting a sustainable and clean energy future for its customers.
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