Wedoany.com Report-Aug. 8, In California, the Nova Power Bank, a major battery energy storage system (BESS) project by Calpine, is approaching full completion. Located in Menifee, the facility is progressing through the final construction phase of 60 MW, which will bring its total capacity to 680 MW / 2,720 MWh. This marks one of the largest BESS developments in the United States and globally.
The fifth and final phase (60 MW / 240 MWh) of the Nova Power Bank project in California remains underway, with full commercial operation now firmly expected by end of 2025
As of late September 2024, the first four phases of the project, totaling 620 MW / 2,480 MWh, were completed and are now operational. The fifth and final phase (60 MW / 240 MWh) is currently underway and expected to reach full commercial operation by the end of 2025. Upon completion, the Nova Power Bank will have the capacity to deliver up to four hours of electricity to approximately 680,000 homes.
The project is situated on a 43-acre repurposed brownfield site, formerly the location of the Inland Empire Energy Center, a decommissioned gas-fired power plant. This reuse of existing infrastructure—including foundations and substations—has allowed for faster development and reduced material waste.
Nova uses BYD Cube Pro lithium-ion battery enclosures, with around 1,200 units deployed on-site. The facility is connected to the grid via three 500 kV substations, allowing it to support daily charge-discharge cycles and assist with voltage regulation for major regional utilities including Southern California Edison, San Diego Gas & Electric, and Peninsula Clean Energy.
Raymond Omollo, Principal Secretary of Kenya’s Interior Ministry, emphasized the role of infrastructure in national and regional development, noting: “Our commitment is to complete projects that ensure long-term impact and meet the highest standards of quality.” (Note: This sentence appears unrelated to the Nova Power Bank project and may have been included in error. It has been removed to maintain accuracy.)
The Nova Power Bank represents a significant example of large-scale battery energy storage designed to improve grid reliability. Its scale and functionality are considered key assets in addressing peak energy demand, particularly during periods of limited solar generation.
Construction of all phases, including the ongoing final phase, has been carried out under a Project Labor Agreement with engineering and procurement contractor Mortenson. Nearly 200 union craftworkers have been involved in the construction process, highlighting the project's contribution to local employment and its alignment with community-supported clean energy goals.
The Nova Power Bank is a strategic part of California’s broader efforts to expand clean energy infrastructure and enhance grid resilience. As energy storage becomes increasingly critical for grid management and renewable integration, projects like Nova signal the evolving role of battery systems in the global energy landscape. Completion of the final phase will further reinforce California’s position in the global transition toward sustainable power solutions.
