In a bold step toward advancing sustainable energy solutions, Alabama Power has announced plans to develop the state’s first-ever utility-scale Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at the former site of the iconic Plant Gorgas in Walker County. The new Gorgas Battery Facility will store up to 150 MW of electricity, enough to power approximately 9,000 homes, as part of Alabama Power’s ongoing commitment to modernizing the state’s energy infrastructure.
Honoring a Legacy While Embracing the Future
For more than a century, Plant Gorgas powered Alabama’s residents and businesses, becoming a pillar of the state’s energy landscape. Now, the site will be repurposed for a new, innovative purpose that combines Alabama Power’s rich history with its vision for a sustainable future.
“This facility will help Alabama Power understand how we can best use battery systems on our electric grid so that customers have power when they need it,” said Jeff Peoples, Chairman, President, and CEO of Alabama Power. “The project honors Plant Gorgas’ legacy, which has played a significant role in powering the state of Alabama since 1917.”
The Gorgas Battery Facility, covering a 7-acre site, will be a standalone system that connects directly to Alabama Power’s electric grid. This connection will allow the facility to charge with electricity generated by other sources, storing it for later use. By doing so, it will improve grid stability and help balance energy supply and demand more efficiently.
Innovative Technology for a Sustainable Energy Future
Set to begin construction in 2025 and slated for completion in 2027, the Gorgas Battery Facility will use cutting-edge lithium iron phosphate batteries. These batteries are renowned for their energy efficiency and ability to recharge in a little over two hours, providing a two-hour duration of power storage. The use of battery storage will allow Alabama Power to charge when energy costs are lower and discharge when demand spikes, helping keep energy prices stable for customers.
“Batteries can charge when energy costs are lower and discharge when energy costs are higher, helping keep costs down,” said Brandon Dillard, Senior Vice President of Generation at Alabama Power. “They can also supply energy to our system quickly in response to changing conditions, which is essential in ensuring we continue to provide reliable service to our customers.”
Battery storage will also play a vital role in integrating renewable energy into Alabama Power’s generation mix. Since renewable sources like solar are weather-dependent, energy storage systems like the Gorgas facility will help smooth out the intermittent supply of these sources, providing a steady and reliable power supply to the grid.
Supporting Communities and Sustainability
Repurposing the Plant Gorgas site for the new battery facility also highlights Alabama Power’s dedication to sustainable solutions that support both the environment and the communities it serves. By reusing the historic site, Alabama Power is reinforcing its commitment to Walker County and the greater Alabama region.
“Plant Gorgas and Walker County hold a special place in our company’s history,” said Jill Stork, Vice President of Alabama Power’s Western Division. “The reuse of this site reaffirms our support of the communities we have long served, ensuring sustainable solutions that honor our past while looking to the future.”
The Gorgas Battery Facility is not just an energy project; it is a symbol of how Alabama Power is shaping the future of energy in Alabama—blending innovation with a deep respect for the history that has made the company what it is today.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Energy in Alabama
The Gorgas Battery Facility is just the beginning of Alabama Power’s journey into energy storage. As the utility explores more ways to incorporate battery storage into its system, this project will provide invaluable insights into how such technologies can help stabilize the grid, reduce energy costs, and enable the integration of more clean energy resources.
This forward-thinking project represents Alabama Power’s ongoing efforts to modernize the electric grid and meet the growing demand for cleaner, more efficient energy. By leveraging battery storage technology, Alabama Power is ensuring that it remains a reliable and innovative energy provider for its customers.
As construction begins in 2025, the Gorgas Battery Facility will serve as a cornerstone for Alabama Power’s future endeavors, reaffirming its commitment to a reliable, sustainable, and affordable energy system for all of Alabama