Delaware Electric Cooperative secures funding for battery storage project near Georgetown

During the recent Senate Environment, Energy & Transportation Committee meeting held on March 26, 2025, significant discussions centered around Delaware Electric Cooperative's (DEC) battery storage project at the Bruce Henry solar farm near Georgetown. This initiative is part of a broader pilot program supported by the Sustainable Energy Utility (SEU) and aims to enhance energy management and sustainability in the region.

The proposed battery storage project, which is currently in development, is a 7-megawatt facility that will utilize federal grant funding, although this funding is presently on hold. The SEU's financial support comes at a crucial time, allowing DEC to maintain its project timeline. The cooperative anticipates that the battery storage system will yield multiple benefits, including increased capacity for residential solar installations in the area, which is currently limited due to the existing solar farm.

One of the key advantages highlighted during the meeting is the potential for significant cost savings. DEC estimates that the battery storage system could reduce overall demand costs by approximately $500,000 annually. This reduction is particularly important during peak demand periods when electricity prices rise. By discharging stored energy during these high-demand times, DEC aims to manage costs more effectively and provide more stable energy rates for consumers.

Additionally, the battery storage project is expected to enhance grid reliability. In the event of service disruptions from the transmission provider, the stored energy can be quickly deployed to restore power, ensuring that residents remain connected even during outages.

The committee also discussed the possibility of expanding the project beyond its initial scope, potentially increasing its capacity with the support of SEU funding. This reflects a growing recognition of the importance of energy storage solutions in managing demand and integrating renewable energy sources.

In conclusion, the discussions at the Senate committee meeting underscore a pivotal moment for energy management in Delaware. The advancements in battery storage technology and the support from state initiatives like the SEU could lead to more sustainable energy practices, lower costs for consumers, and improved reliability in the energy grid. As the project progresses, stakeholders will be closely monitoring its development and the broader implications for energy policy in the state.