Clearway Energy Group has initiated the construction of four 80-MW Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) projects, which are part of its Honeycomb portfolio in Beaver County, Utah. This marks a significant milestone for the company, as each project will utilize 4-hour Tesla batteries to collectively store up to 1,280 MWh of dispatchable power. These projects are designed to support Clearway's existing solar energy portfolio in the area, further enhancing the reliability and flexibility of the power grid.

“Utah has long been a leader in energy innovation, and the Honeycomb BESS portfolio is another step forward in delivering clean, reliable and dispatchable power to our communities,” said U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT). “By expanding battery storage capacity right here in our state, Clearway Energy Group is driving solutions that strengthen both our economy and our environment.”

The Honeycomb portfolio is contracted with PacifiCorp under a 20-year toll agreement, ensuring the utility receives dispatchable, reliable power, a crucial element for enhancing grid stability.

Steve Ryder, Chief Financial Officer of Clearway, expressed pride in the company’s expansion: “Clearway has been operating clean and reliable energy assets in Utah since 2008. We are proud to expand our presence and economic commitment in Utah with the Honeycomb portfolio, which will bring our total fleet in the state to 869 megawatts. The Honeycomb battery energy storage systems represent not only a major investment in grid stability in Utah, but also advances Utah’s goal of energy security for the state.”

The $605 million Honeycomb portfolio has been financed through a consortium of banks, including KeyBanc Capital Markets Inc., CoBank ACB, DNB Bank ASA, and U.S. Bancorp Impact Finance, among others. The project’s construction is being managed in partnership with Rosendin, which will generate up to 50 above-prevailing-wage jobs, with 15% of total work hours being fulfilled by apprentices.

Jen Wakeland, Strategic Development Director for Beaver County, highlighted the significance of the project for the region: “Beaver County continues to lead in renewable energy innovation, and the implementation of a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) is a testament to that commitment. By integrating advanced storage solutions, we maximize the value of our renewable energy resources, ensuring reliability, efficiency, and long-term sustainability for our community and beyond.”

In addition to its environmental benefits, the Honeycomb project will have a positive economic impact on the local community. It is expected to contribute $60 million in property and sales taxes over the lifetime of the projects, providing vital support to schools, hospitals, and other public services in the area.

Clearway's Honeycomb BESS projects are set to reach commercial operations in 2026, further cementing Utah’s role in advancing renewable energy technology and grid modernization. The company’s continued investments in the state reflect a growing commitment to building sustainable energy solutions that benefit both the local community and the broader energy landscape.

These developments come at a time when battery storage is increasingly being recognized as a key component in the transition to renewable energy, helping to bridge the gap between energy production and demand and ensuring that clean energy can be reliably stored and delivered when needed most. The success of the Honeycomb BESS portfolio will serve as an important model for future energy storage projects in the U.S. and beyond.

Originally reported by Kelsey Misbrener in Solar Power World.