TEP to Construct Second 200-MW BESS in Tucson

• TEP's Roadrunner Reserve II project will power 42,000 homes with lithium iron phosphate batteries, enhancing energy reliability and sustainability in southeast Tucson.

Arizona utility Tucson Electric Power (TEP) is set to build its second 200-MW battery energy storage system (BESS) in southeast Tucson, alongside a similarly sized facility already under construction. The Roadrunner Reserve II project will use lithium iron phosphate battery units to store 800 MWh of electricity, enough to power approximately 42,000 homes for four hours at full capacity. DEPCOM Power Inc will serve as the contractor for the project, which is expected to be operational by early 2026.

The new BESS will help TEP manage intermittent energy resources, particularly during peak demand periods like the summer. TEP plans to charge the batteries with grid energy in the morning and early afternoon, then dispatch it during high-demand periods later in the day. TEP's President and CEO, Susan Gray, emphasized the importance of energy storage in maintaining service reliability and supporting a diverse energy portfolio.

How will Tucson Electric Power's new BESS enhance energy management?

• The new BESS will enhance TEP's ability to manage intermittent energy resources, such as solar and wind power, by storing excess energy during times of low demand and releasing it during peak demand periods.
  
• By charging the batteries with grid energy in the morning and early afternoon, TEP can ensure a more stable and reliable energy supply for customers during high-demand periods, like the summer months.
  
• The lithium iron phosphate battery units used in the BESS have a high energy density and long cycle life, making them a cost-effective and efficient solution for storing large amounts of electricity.
  
• TEP's investment in energy storage technology reflects a commitment to sustainability and reducing reliance on fossil fuels, while also supporting the integration of renewable energy sources into the grid.
• The Roadrunner Reserve II project is part of TEP's broader strategy to modernize its grid infrastructure and enhance energy management capabilities, ultimately benefiting both customers and the environment.