Intelligent Generation is poised to bolster its energy storage capabilities with the upcoming commissioning of its second battery at Abt Electronics. This strategic move reinforces the company’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions and its ability to optimize grid performance.
A Powerful Partnership
The newly installed Tesla MegaPack 2XL, boasting an impressive 530 kW x 2,120 kWh capacity (4-hour duration), is now connected to the grid and undergoing rigorous final testing. This state-of-the-art battery system, developed by Convergence Energy and engineered and constructed by Continental Energy Solutions, seamlessly integrates with Abt Electronics’ existing solar installation.
A Collaborative Effort
The collaboration between Intelligent Generation, Convergence Energy, and Continental Energy Solutions has been instrumental in bringing this project to fruition. By leveraging their collective expertise, the partners have successfully navigated the complex regulatory landscape and executed the project efficiently.
A Step Towards a Greener Future
Abt’s newest battery is part of the electrical system for Abt’s recycling center. As the largest retailer of appliances and electronics in Northern Illinois, Abt takes back a mountain of packaging and used appliances every day. With its new recycling center, completed in 2023, Abt is not only helping to improve the environment, but has made recycling a profit center. The recycling center receives 8 semi-truck loads of used appliances back from its customer deliveries every day. It now crushes those and sells them for scrap metal. In addition, it consolidates electronic waste (including televisions), cardboard, and even melts down styrofoam packaging into blocks for re-cycling. The recycling center has 243 kWdc of solar on the roof and now the battery further reduces its carbon footprint.
With the recent approval from ComEd for Permission to Operate, Intelligent Generation is one step closer to realizing the full potential of this second battery. Once fully operational, this energy storage solution will provide numerous benefits, including:
- Enhanced Grid Reliability: By smoothing out fluctuations in renewable energy generation and grid demand, the battery will contribute to a more stable and reliable power supply.
- Reduced Peak Demand: The battery can discharge during periods of high demand, reducing the strain on the grid and potentially lowering energy costs.
- Increased Renewable Energy Integration: By storing excess solar energy, the battery can enable greater utilization of renewable resources.
- Emergency Power Supply: In the event of a grid outage, the battery can provide backup power to critical infrastructure and facilities.
As Intelligent Generation finalizes testing and prepares for full operations, the project is poised to set a new benchmark for large-scale battery storage deployments. By demonstrating the technical and economic feasibility of such systems, this initiative will undoubtedly inspire further innovation and adoption of clean energy technologies.