Dominion Energy Virginia has filed a proposal with the Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC) for a battery storage pilot project that could significantly increase the duration of time batteries can discharge electricity to the grid. The project, called the Darbytown Storage Pilot Project, aims to test two alternative technologies to traditional lithium-ion batteries.
One of the technologies being tested is an iron-air battery developed by Form Energy, which has the potential to discharge energy for up to 100 hours. This is a significant improvement compared to the current average battery duration of four hours or less. The other technology being tested is a zinc-hybrid battery developed by Eos Energy Enterprises.
This pilot project comes at a critical time as Dominion Energy Virginia is developing the largest offshore wind project in the U.S. and expanding its solar fleet. The addition of batteries with longer durations could be a transformative step forward in safely discharging stored energy when it is most needed by customers.
The Darbytown Storage Pilot Project will be located at the existing Darbytown Power Station in Henrico County. Construction is expected to begin by late 2024, with the project becoming operational by late 2026. Approval from the SCC and Henrico County is required for the project to proceed.
If successful, this project will add to Dominion Energy Virginia’s growing fleet of battery storage facilities. The company currently operates three facilities in Powhatan, New Kent, and Hanover counties, with three more under development in Chesterfield County, Sussex County, and at Dulles International Airport in Loudoun County.
Dominion Energy Virginia’s partnership with Form Energy and Eos Energy Enterprises demonstrates their commitment to exploring multiple storage technologies to meet future energy needs. These longer-duration batteries will not only enhance grid reliability but also provide customers with access to renewable energy for extended periods.
Sources:
– Dominion Energy
– Form Energy
– Eos Energy Enterprises