California Marks a Milestone in Energy Transition with Sandrini Storage Project

Celebrating Clean Energy Milestones in California

EDP Renewables North America (EDPR NA) and Redwood Coast Energy Authority (RCEA) recently commemorated the completion of the Sandrini Energy Storage project located in Kern County, California. This groundbreaking initiative features a 92 megawatt (MW) / 368 megawatt-hour (MWh) battery energy storage system (BESS), which is capable of supplying power to over 22,000 homes in the region.

The Sandrini Energy Storage facility, strategically positioned alongside the 300 MW Sandrini Solar energy site, where RCEA will purchase 100 MW, plays a crucial role in enhancing grid reliability and achieving California's clean energy targets. The project has secured an agreement for energy storage services, ensuring that RCEA has access to the full capacity of the battery system.

According to Sandhya Ganapathy, CEO of EDPR NA, "The Sandrini Energy Storage project is a significant step towards a sustainable energy future for California. Energy storage is pivotal in converting renewable energy into a stable power supply, especially during peak demand periods. Initiatives like Sandrini not only bolster grid resilience but also promote economic development and contribute to a more economical and reliable energy framework for the state. We appreciate the collaboration with our local communities and RCEA in bringing this project online."

Beth Burks, the Executive Director of RCEA, echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the project's alignment with their objective of creating new clean energy sources. She stated, "The integration of the Sandrini Energy Storage project into our portfolio aids our mission to enhance our clean energy capabilities, meeting customer demands while reinforcing grid stability."

The economic implications of the Sandrini project are noteworthy, anticipated to generate over $5 million in revenues that will support essential local public services—ranging from schools and roads to emergency services and parks. Notably, during its construction phase, the initiative created approximately 50 jobs, contributing to a total of 250 jobs throughout the Sandrini Solar Energy Storage project. Furthermore, it is projected to generate over $25 million in tax revenue for the local area.

As a prominent player in California's renewable energy sector, EDPR NA operates an impressive portfolio that includes around 1,230 MW of gross capacity from wind, solar, and energy storage projects, powering the equivalent of more than 485,000 homes in California. The company's contributions to the state have resulted in an economic impact exceeding $154 million, which incorporates over $41 million in revenue for local governments and more than $33 million in compensations to landowners. In California, EDPR NA's projects include multiple solar and wind facilities such as Lone Valley Solar, Rising Tree Wind, and Scarlet Solar Energy Storage.

In June, EDPR NA also inaugurated another significant energy storage project, the Flatland Energy Storage in Coolidge, Arizona, which is a 200 MW / 800 MWh BESS capable of powering approximately 44,500 homes.

About EDP Renewables North America

EDP Renewables North America LLC, along with its subsidiaries, specializes in the development, construction, ownership, and operation of wind farms, solar parks, and energy storage systems across North America. Based in Houston, Texas, the company manages a diverse portfolio of renewable projects with more than 12,900 megawatts developed and over 12,300 megawatts operated in onshore utility-scale renewable energy sectors. EDPR NA’s dedicated workforce of over 1,000 employees exemplifies their commitment and capability to execute extensive projects throughout the continent. For further information, visit EDP Renewables North America or follow them on LinkedIn.

About Redwood Coast Energy Authority

Founded in 2003, the Redwood Coast Energy Authority is a local government joint powers agency, comprised of members including the Blue Lake Rancheria, Yurok Tribe, the County of Humboldt, and seven municipalities within the county. RCEA’s primary mission revolves around developing sustainable energy initiatives that lower energy demand, boost energy efficiency, and promote renewable energy resources within the region. Learn more at Redwood Coast Energy Authority.