Tucson Electric Power Aims to Enhance Solar Energy Storage
New Project to Boost Energy Storage in Southeast Tucson
(Source: TEP)
Tucson Electric Power (TEP) is planning to build the 200 MW Roadrunner Reserve II, its second large BESS, in southeast Tucson. The system is slated to store 800 MWh and is scheduled to begin operation in 2026, a year after the similarly sized Roadrunner Reserve is expected to begin operating on the same site.
Largest Energy Storage Resources in TEP’s Portfolio
The side-by-side systems are slated to be the largest energy storage resources in TEP’s portfolio. According to Susan Gray, TEP’s President and CEO, “Our new Roadrunner Reserve II system will help us make the most of intermittent resources, especially during the summer when usage is highest and customers are counting on us the most.” Gray adds, “We need additional energy storage as part of a diverse energy portfolio to support service reliability.”
Construction and Operating Details
The projects will be built next to a southeast-side TEP substation. Construction of Roadrunner Reserve is ongoing, while construction of Roadrunner Reserve II is scheduled to begin later this year. Currently, TEP has 50 MW of storage capacity, including a 30 MW BESS at the Wilmot Energy Center.
The company will own and operate both systems, which will be designed and built by Scottsdale-based DEPCOM Power. Both systems will use lithium iron phosphate battery units. TEP and its parent company, UNS Energy, are subsidiaries of Fortis.
Conclusion
The construction of Roadrunner Reserve II is a significant step forward in TEP’s effort to enhance its energy storage capabilities and support a diversified energy portfolio. The addition of this new system will help the company to optimize its use of intermittent solar resources and ensure reliable energy service to its customers.
