7 US States with the Most Installed Battery Capacity

As the United States transitions towards a cleaner, more sustainable energy future, installed battery capacity in the form of battery energy storage systems (BESS) is an increasingly important component of the nation's power infrastructure. This technology involves large-scale energy storage systems that can capture excess electricity during periods of low demand or high renewable energy generation and release it when demand peaks or renewable sources are unavailable.

The most common type of grid-scale battery storage utilizes lithium-ion technology, similar to what's found in smartphones and electric vehicles but on a much larger scale. These systems consist of thousands of battery cells housed in climate-controlled containers, often situated near power plants or renewable energy installations. When charged, the batteries store energy in the form of chemical potential, which can be rapidly converted back to electricity when needed.

Several factors drive the need for increased battery capacity in the US. Primarily, it supports the integration of renewable energy sources like solar and wind power, which are intermittent by nature. Batteries help smooth out these fluctuations, storing excess energy when the sun shines or wind blows, and releasing it during calm or cloudy periods. Additionally, batteries contribute to grid stability by responding to changes in electricity demand almost instantaneously, helping to maintain a stable frequency on the power grid and preventing blackouts.

Related:Long Duration Energy Storage: A Renewable Grid Solution

Another crucial function of installed battery capacity is peak shaving. By discharging stored energy during high-demand periods, batteries reduce the need for expensive "peaker" power plants that only operate during peak hours. Furthermore, in the event of power outages due to extreme weather or other emergencies, battery storage can provide backup power to critical infrastructure, enhancing the overall resilience of the power system.

Recently, the US Energy Information Administration released a survey of US battery storage capacity as of 2023. In this piece, we’ll take a look at the seven US states with the greatest installed battery capacity and the initiatives driving these trailblazers.