Alabama Power announced that the former Plant Gorgas site in Walker County, which served the region for over a century, will be the location of the state’s first-ever full utility-scale battery storage system.

The 7-acre Gorgas Battery Facility will reportedly store up to 150 MW of electricity generated by other Alabama Power resources. 150 MW is equivalent to the capacity needed to power about 9,000 homes. According to the company, the system is designed to be standalone and will connect to and charge directly from the electric grid.

“This facility will help Alabama Power understand how we can best use battery systems on our electric grid so that customers have power when they need it,” said Jeff Peoples, Alabama Power Chairman, President and CEO. “The project honors Plant Gorgas’ legacy, which has played a significant role in powering the state of Alabama since 1917.”

Brandon Dillard, senior vice president of Alabama Power’s generating fleet, noted the potential value of battery storage tech.

“Batteries can charge when energy costs are lower and discharge when energy costs are higher, helping keep costs down. They can also supply energy to our system quickly in response to changing conditions,” said Dillard. “We are excited to learn how battery storage technology best fits into our system to reliably serve our customers.”

“As we work to make our system stronger and smarter, innovative technologies such as battery storage could help ensure a steady energy supply.”

Jill Stork, vice president of the company’s Western Division, pointed to the revitalization of the property as an indication of Alabama Power’s continued commitment to residents of the area.

“Plant Gorgas and Walker County hold a special place in our company’s history,” said Stork. “The reuse of this site reaffirms our support of the communities we have long served, ensuring sustainable solutions that honor our past while looking to the future.”

Construction will begin in 2025, with an estimated completion date of 2027.

Austen Shipley is the News Director for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten