The Denton Public Utilities Board convened on September 29, 2025, to discuss significant developments in renewable energy initiatives aimed at enhancing the city's power supply and sustainability goals. Key topics included a proposed battery storage project and a new wind generation facility.

The board highlighted the challenges posed by the "duck curve," a phenomenon where solar energy production drops significantly during peak evening hours, leading to potential price volatility in energy markets. To address this issue, Denton Municipal Electric (DME) is proposing a 10-year power purchase agreement (PPA) for a battery storage solution that will provide 100 megawatts of capacity starting in June 2026. This facility, located southeast of Waco and operated by Jupiter Power, aims to mitigate costs associated with fluctuating energy prices, particularly during extreme weather conditions. The project is expected to serve as a financial hedge for the utility, helping to stabilize costs for customers.

In addition to the battery storage project, the board discussed a proposal for the Blue Summit 1 wind generation facility. This 15-year PPA would secure approximately 140 megawatts of capacity from a facility located near Vernon, Texas. The wind project is part of DME's ongoing commitment to achieving 100% renewable energy, providing a diversification of energy sources that will help meet demand during nighttime hours. The facility is already operational and benefits from current federal production tax credits, making it a timely addition to Denton's renewable energy portfolio.

Both proposals received unanimous support from the board, which emphasized their importance in advancing Denton's renewable energy goals and ensuring a reliable power supply for the future. The recommendations will be forwarded to the city council for final approval, marking a significant step toward enhancing the city's energy infrastructure and sustainability efforts.