Wedoany.com Report-Jun 23, DESRI, a clean energy developer, and the Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) have entered into a long-term power purchase agreement for the 160MW/640MWh Dry Creek Energy Storage project. The facility will be located at the site of the decommissioned Rancho Seco power station in Sacramento County, California.

The project aims to enhance grid reliability, optimize the performance of SMUD’s renewable energy assets, and support the utility’s decarbonization objectives. DESRI Chief Development Officer Hy Martin stated: “The facility would play a critical role in helping SMUD to maintain and enhance grid reliability, optimise performance of their renewable energy assets and contribute to their decarbonisation goals.”

SMUD highlighted that the battery storage project aligns with its goal of achieving zero-carbon power by 2030. By utilizing existing transmission infrastructure at the Rancho Seco site, the project avoids the need for costly upgrades, ensuring efficient integration of renewable energy into the grid.

Lora Anguay, SMUD’s Chief Zero Carbon Officer, commented: “This battery storage project represents another significant milestone in SMUD’s Zero Carbon Plan. By enhancing our existing renewable infrastructure at Rancho Seco with battery technology, we're building a more flexible and reliable grid while enabling a more efficient integration of renewable energy.”

DESRI’s portfolio includes over 9GW of solar and wind capacity either operational, contracted, or under construction across the United States. The Dry Creek Energy Storage project strengthens DESRI’s commitment to advancing clean energy solutions and supports SMUD’s efforts to build a sustainable energy future in Sacramento County.

The initiative demonstrates a strategic approach to leveraging existing infrastructure for modern energy storage, contributing to regional energy resilience and the broader transition to renewable energy sources.