Form Energy battery farm rendering

As the world moves toward cleaner energy solutions and states continue implementing carbon-free policies, renewable resources like wind and solar will play an increasingly significant role in powering our lives.

But these resources inherently come with a challenge: the variability of their production. Wind and solar are not dispatchable resources by themselves — meaning they cannot simply be switched “on” when the grid needs electricity — making it difficult to align energy generation with demand. That’s where batteries represent a possible solution.

Energy storage systems, particularly large-scale batteries, are becoming a key part of an increasingly renewable-powered grid. They enable utilities to store surplus energy generated during times of high production and release it during periods of low output or peak demand. This capability not only balances supply and demand but also enhances the reliability and stability of the electric grid.

“Batteries will be important in creating a robust, resource-diverse grid that can fully harness renewable resources,” said Zac Ruzycki, director of resource planning at Great River Energy, North Itasca Electric’s wholesale power provider. “Without the characteristics that energy storage brings, there is a level of inefficiency in the system that doesn’t allow us to make the most of the clean energy generated on our grid, from both an economic and reliability perspective.”

Exploring battery solutions

Great River Energy has been at the forefront of exploring innovative battery storage solutions to support its member cooperatives. These systems provide dual benefits: They help maintain a reliable electricity supply while also helping Great River Energy meet Minnesota’s requirement for utilities to provide 100% carbon-free electricity by 2040.

One of Great River Energy’s most ambitious projects to date involves the implementation of a long-duration battery system. Unlike traditional batteries that discharge energy for a few hours, the cooperative’s Cambridge Energy Storage Project can potentially provide power for up to several days. This capability is crucial for addressing extended periods of low renewable generation, such as a multi-day stretch with minimal wind or cloudy skies.

“Long-duration energy storage doesn’t just support renewables, it holds the potential to transform them into dependable, on-demand resources,” Ruzycki said. “That type of technological potential strengthens our ability to deliver affordable, reliable power to our members.”

In addition to enhancing grid reliability, batteries also offer cost-saving benefits. By lowering energy costs during peak demand, energy storage provides economic advantages to both utilities and cooperative members.