Jupiter Power Activates 200-MW Battery in Houston

• Jupiter Power's Callisto I battery storage revolutionizes Houston's energy landscape, delivering 200 MW of dispatchable power and paving the way for a sustainable, resilient future.

Jupiter Power LLC has commenced commercial operations of its 200-MW/400-MWh Callisto I battery energy storage system (BESS) in Houston, Texas. The facility, located on the site of a former fossil fuel power plant, will provide dispatchable power to the ERCOT grid, addressing the city's record-high power demand. The site has the potential to host an additional 400 MW/800 MWh of battery storage capacity.

The Callisto I project, funded with $65.2 million in debt financing from First Citizens Bank, increases Jupiter Power’s dispatchable energy storage capacity in ERCOT to 1,375 MWh across nine facilities. CEO Andy Bowman highlighted the project's role in meeting Houston's growing power needs and enhancing resilience against extreme weather events.

How Will Callisto I BESS Impact Houston's Power Demand and Grid Resilience?

• - Enhancing Grid Stability: The Callisto I BESS will provide a significant boost to the ERCOT grid's stability by offering a reliable source of dispatchable energy. During peak demand times, this facility can quickly release stored energy, reducing the need for less efficient and more polluting fossil fuel plants to ramp up operations.
• Mitigating Power Outages: With an increasing frequency of extreme weather events, the Callisto I will contribute to grid resilience by providing backup power during outages. Its capacity to respond to sudden drops in power generation or spikes in demand makes it a crucial asset for maintaining continuity of service in adverse conditions.
• Supporting Renewable Integration: As Texas continues to ramp up its renewable energy generation, particularly from wind and solar resources, the Callisto I BESS can store excess energy generated during periods of high production and deliver it when renewable generation is low. This helps to smooth out fluctuations in power availability, thus increasing the overall reliability of renewable energy on the grid.
• Economic Impact: The construction and ongoing operation of the Callisto I facility could create jobs in the Houston area, stimulating local economies. Additionally, reliable energy storage solutions can attract new businesses looking for stable energy sources, further economic growth.
• Reducing Electricity Prices: By participating in ancillary service markets, the Callisto I BESS can help lower electricity costs for consumers. It helps to manage supply and demand more efficiently, reducing the need for more expensive peaking power plants and, subsequently, the cost of electricity.
• Encouraging Future Investments: The successful implementation of the Callisto I project might encourage further investments in battery storage technology in the region. This can position Houston as a leader in energy innovation and sustainability, paving the way for more advanced energy solutions.
• Environmental Benefits: By reducing reliance on fossil fuels during peak demands, the Callisto I BESS can contribute to cutting greenhouse gas emissions. This aligns with broader climate action goals and supports the transition towards a cleaner energy future.
• Flexibility and Modular Expansion: The facility’s potential to host an additional 400 MW/800 MWh of battery storage capacity showcases its adaptability and the scalability of storage solutions to meet future energy demands, ensuring that it can evolve as the region’s power needs grow.
• Community Resilience: By providing reliable and sustained power, Callisto I enhances community resilience. This is especially important for essential services such as hospitals, water treatment plants, and emergency response facilities, which require continuous power irrespective of external conditions.
• Synergy with Other Energy Projects: The Callisto I BESS can complement ongoing renewable projects within Houston and surrounding areas. Its presence can create synergies with solar farms and wind projects, optimizing their output and ensuring that energy generated from these sources is utilized effectively.