#United States #Charlotte #Renewable Energy #Duke Energy #Battery Storage

Duke Energy Innovates with New Battery Storage System at Former Coal Plant

Duke Energy, a major player in the energy sector, has officially launched a state-of-the-art 50-megawatt battery energy storage system (BESS) at its repurposed Allen coal plant site located on Lake Wylie. This significant investment, approximately $100 million, marks a pivotal shift in how the company plans to meet the increasing energy demands across North and South Carolina.

A Step Towards Sustainable Energy

The activation of this battery storage system, completed ahead of schedule and under budget, was officially announced in January 2026 but has been serving customers since November of the previous year. This facility is designed to store energy for up to four hours, providing crucial support during peak demand periods, especially cold winter mornings before solar energy generation begins.

Duke Energy has outlined plans for an even larger battery storage facility, a 167-megawatt BESS, which will begin construction in May. This second system reflects the company’s commitment to rapidly enhancing its renewable energy capabilities. Both of these lithium-ion battery systems will qualify for federal investment tax credits, allowing Duke Energy to pass significant savings onto its customers, making this transition not only environmentally friendly but economically viable.

Reinvesting in Communities

Duke Energy’s North Carolina President, Kendal Bowman, emphasized the importance of this transition: “We are building new resources to keep the Carolinas’ economy thriving while reinvesting in a former coal plant community that helped power this region for decades.” Such repurposing of existing infrastructure, boosted by federal funding, significantly reduces costs for customers while contributing to the local economy. This initiative also promises the creation of new jobs at the Gaston County site, further integrating the community into Duke Energy's sustainable future.

Addressing Energy Needs

As energy demands increase, especially in the Carolinas, the need for innovative solutions becomes critical. Utility-scale battery systems like the one at the Allen plant are essential not just for their ability to store surplus energy generated during low-demand periods but also for providing immediate energy when needed, facilitating a smooth transition to renewable energy sources such as solar and nuclear.

Duke Energy has ambitious plans to install 6,550 megawatts of battery storage by 2035 to address the growing energy requirements in both states. This level of storage is projected to power over five million homes during peak energy use, signifying an essential step towards a reliable and sustainable energy future.

Maintaining a Diverse Energy Mix

Duke Energy's long-term strategy focuses on balancing a diverse energy mix, comprised of solar, storage solutions, nuclear, and natural gas generation to meet anticipated electricity demand, which is expected to rise dramatically over the next 15 years. Their upcoming Carolinas Resource Plan outlines how the company intends to achieve this goal effectively, ensuring the reliability and sustainability of energy across the region.

Community Legacy

The legacy of Gaston County is pivotal in supporting the energy needs of its residents across North Carolina and South Carolina. Duke Energy is committed to utilizing both the Allen and Riverbend coal plant sites for battery storage, repurposing them into assets that will serve future generations. Construction on the Riverbend site is slated to begin in late 2026, demonstrating the company’s ongoing commitment to transition from traditional energy sources to cleaner alternatives.

The Road Ahead

As part of its ongoing strategy, Duke Energy is set to propose additional battery storage projects, including a potential third BESS at the Allen site, expected to commence operation by the end of 2028. These developments are integral to Duke Energy's vision of a smarter and cleaner energy future.

In conclusion, Duke Energy's innovative approach to energy storage at the former Allen coal plant symbolizes a significant shift towards sustainability and community reinvestment. By harnessing cutting-edge technology and federal support, Duke Energy is not only modernizing its infrastructure but also ensuring the long-term energy needs of its customers in the Carolinas are met efficiently and responsibly.