Xtreme Power and Xcel Energy will cooperatively install a 1MW solar system at the Solar Technology Acceleration Center (SolarTAC) in order to gather operational data for energy storage combined with solar energy systems. Xtreme’s utility-scale energy storage Dynamic Power Resources (DPR) system will be used on the project to conduct various energy storage and grid asset functions, which include output smoothing, time shifting, and forecast error mitigation.
“Taking part in the SolarTAC project with Xcel Energy affords us an opportunity to work alongside one of the most progressive utilities in the industry,” said Carlos Coe, CEO of Xtreme Power. “We expect the results to highlight the broad range of benefits battery energy storage brings to PV manufacturers, project developers and power producers, ultimately enabling a more effective utilization of clean energy around the world.”
Try Premium for just $1
- Full premium access for the first month at only $1
- Converts to an annual rate after 30 days unless cancelled
- Cancel anytime during the trial period
Premium Benefits
- Expert industry analysis and interviews
- Digital access to PV Tech Power journal
- Exclusive event discounts
Or get the full Premium subscription right away
Or continue reading this article for free
The test project looks to show real-world results from the combination of storage systems with solar installations in order to better integrate energy output from renewable sources into the power grid. The DPR will be in operation by the end of 2010 and both companies have agreed that results will be made available to the public over the three years that the research project is conducted.
“We hope that this demonstration will prove to be a pivotal point for PV solar energy combined with energy storage, and in turn underscore for utilities and other electricity providers that viable energy storage systems can become a commercial reality,” said Frank Novachek, Xcel Energy director for business planning.