CAMS Secures O&M Deal for 200-MW California Battery

• CAMS secures a $165M contract to manage Big Rock's 200-MW battery storage, boosting California's grid resilience with advanced maintenance and AI optimization.

Consolidated Asset Management Services (CAMS) has secured a contract to provide operations and maintenance services for the 200-MW/400-MWh Big Rock battery storage complex in Southern California. Awarded by Gore Street Energy Storage Fund PLC, the Texas-based CAMS will manage the battery energy storage system (BESS) to enhance grid resiliency and peak load capacity for the California Independent System Operator (CAISO) starting in early 2025. The project is located in El Centro and operates under a 12-year fixed-price resource adequacy contract valued at over USD 165 million.

CAMS' responsibilities include preventative and corrective maintenance, remote operations, NERC compliance, and advanced cybersecurity monitoring of the site's IT and OT infrastructure. The resource adequacy contract accounts for 40% of the project's total revenue, with revenue streams set to begin this summer. Additionally, GridBeyond, an AI-powered energy technology company, has been appointed to provide trading and optimization services for the BESS.

How will CAMS enhance grid resiliency with the Big Rock battery storage complex?

• Increased Energy Storage Capacity: The Big Rock battery storage complex will provide 200 MW/400 MWh of energy storage, allowing for better management of energy supply and demand, particularly during peak load times.
• Enhanced Grid Stability: By storing excess energy and releasing it when needed, the battery storage system will help stabilize the grid, reducing the risk of blackouts and ensuring a consistent energy supply.
• Support for Renewable Energy Integration: The battery storage system will facilitate the integration of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, by storing energy when production is high and releasing it when production is low.
• Improved Peak Load Management: The system will help manage peak load demands by providing additional capacity during high-demand periods, reducing the strain on the grid.
• Advanced Cybersecurity Measures: CAMS will implement advanced cybersecurity monitoring to protect the site's IT and OT infrastructure, ensuring the security and reliability of the energy storage system.
• Compliance with Regulatory Standards: CAMS will ensure that the battery storage complex complies with NERC standards, maintaining the reliability and security of the grid.
• Optimized Energy Trading: With the involvement of GridBeyond, the system will benefit from AI-powered trading and optimization services, maximizing revenue and efficiency.
• Long-term Financial Stability: The 12-year fixed-price resource adequacy contract provides financial stability and predictability, supporting the project's long-term viability.
• Contribution to California's Energy Goals: The project supports California's goals for increasing renewable energy usage and reducing carbon emissions, contributing to a more sustainable energy future.