Apex Clean Energy Announces Commercial Operations for Great Kiskadee Storage, a 100 MW Utility-Scale Battery Facility
Apex Clean Energy has officially announced the commercial operation of Great Kiskadee Storage, a state-of-the-art utility-scale battery energy storage system (BESS) located in Hidalgo County, Texas. The 100-megawatt (MW), 200-megawatt-hour (MWh) facility has a two-hour duration, allowing it to absorb and store surplus energy during periods of high generation and discharge electricity when demand rises. The project is a significant milestone as it represents the first operational asset of SA Grid Solutions, a joint venture formed in early 2024 between Apex Clean Energy and South Korean companies SK Gas and SK eternix.
A Milestone in Energy Storage and Partnership
The successful launch of Great Kiskadee Storage marks a major step forward in the partnership between Apex and SK Gas and SK eternix, highlighting their shared vision and commitment to advancing energy storage solutions in the United States. Apex Clean Energy’s Chief Executive Officer, Ken Young, expressed enthusiasm about the project’s completion and the impact it will have on the Texas electricity grid.
“Great Kiskadee Storage marks a significant milestone in our partnership with SK Gas and SK eternix, demonstrating the strength of our collaboration and shared commitment to advancing energy storage solutions,” said Young. “This facility will play a crucial role in enhancing grid reliability in Texas, absorbing excess electricity during periods of high generation and providing power back to the grid when demand increases.”
The facility’s strategic location in Hidalgo County allows it to contribute to stabilizing the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) grid, particularly during extreme weather conditions and peak electricity consumption periods. The Texas power grid, known for its challenges during heat waves and winter storms, benefits from the addition of battery storage, which helps balance supply and demand fluctuations.
Expanding Apex’s Energy Storage Portfolio
Great Kiskadee Storage is the first of several energy storage assets Apex Clean Energy plans to develop through SA Grid Solutions. The joint venture aims to accelerate the deployment of large-scale battery storage facilities across the U.S., beginning with Texas. The next project under consideration for purchase by the joint venture is of similar size and duration, further expanding the partners’ footprint in the energy storage sector.
As a leader in renewable energy development, Apex will continue to oversee the planning, construction, operations, and optimization of current and future projects within the partnership. The company has a strong track record in developing wind, solar, and battery storage projects that contribute to grid modernization and energy sustainability.
Economic and Environmental Benefits for Texas
Beyond providing stability to the Texas energy grid, Great Kiskadee Storage will generate substantial economic and environmental benefits for the local community. Over its lifetime, the facility is expected to contribute more than $12.6 million in tax revenue, supporting public services such as schools, emergency response, and infrastructure projects within Hidalgo County.
In addition to financial contributions, the project includes significant environmental commitments. Apex Clean Energy has allocated grant funding to support the restoration of 200 acres of wetlands within the Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge. This initiative will enhance the natural habitat for migratory waterfowl, bats, and other wildlife species, reinforcing Apex’s dedication to conservation and sustainability.
The Role of Battery Storage in the Clean Energy Transition
Battery energy storage is a critical component of the transition to a more sustainable and resilient power grid. As renewable energy sources like wind and solar continue to expand, large-scale storage solutions are essential for managing fluctuations in energy generation. Battery systems like Great Kiskadee Storage provide several key benefits:
- Grid Reliability and Stability – By storing surplus electricity during times of high generation and releasing it when demand is high, battery storage helps maintain a stable and reliable power grid.
- Integration of Renewable Energy – Battery storage enables greater adoption of renewable energy by addressing intermittency issues, allowing for more efficient use of wind and solar power.
- Reducing Carbon Emissions – By reducing reliance on fossil fuel-based peaker plants, battery storage contributes to lower greenhouse gas emissions and supports the transition to cleaner energy sources.
- Enhancing Energy Security – Storage facilities improve energy resilience by providing backup power during grid disruptions, extreme weather events, and peak demand periods.
With Texas facing increasing energy demand and extreme weather challenges, investment in battery storage is crucial for maintaining a robust and adaptive energy infrastructure.
Construction and Engineering Excellence
The construction of Great Kiskadee Storage was carried out by Saber Power Services, a company known for its expertise in high-voltage electrical infrastructure projects. The successful completion of the facility underscores the importance of collaboration between engineering firms and energy developers in bringing cutting-edge energy storage solutions to market.
The project’s advanced battery technology and control systems were designed to optimize performance, ensuring efficient charging and discharging cycles. With the growing demand for energy storage projects, innovations in battery management and optimization will play a crucial role in the sector’s future.
Future of Energy Storage and Apex’s Vision
Apex Clean Energy continues to position itself as a leader in renewable energy and battery storage development. The company’s growing portfolio of storage projects aligns with broader industry trends that emphasize decarbonization, grid resilience, and energy affordability.
The partnership between Apex, SK Gas, and SK eternix reflects a broader trend of international collaboration in clean energy investment. With South Korea’s leadership in battery technology and Apex’s expertise in energy project development, SA Grid Solutions is well-positioned to drive innovation in utility-scale energy storage.
As energy storage continues to gain momentum, projects like Great Kiskadee Storage serve as a model for future developments that integrate clean energy, advanced technology, and economic growth. With continued investment and strategic partnerships, the energy sector is poised for a transformation that prioritizes sustainability, efficiency, and resilience.
