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The Largest Batteries in the World

Technology

These energetic titans which are pivotal in managing supply and demand, stabilizing grids, and maximizing the use of renewable sources. We've looked around the globe to introduce you to the largest batteries out there.

Let's get straight to it—beginning with the number one—because that’s why you’re here: 

  1. The Edwards & Sanborn Solar Plus Storage Project (California, USA) 

  2. Moss Landing Energy Storage Facility (California, USA)  

  3. The Dalian Flow Battery Energy Storage Peak-Shaving Power Station (Liaoning, China)  

  4. Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) Battery Energy Storage (BESS) Elkhorn Battery Project (California, USA) 

  5. The Victorian Big Battery (Victoria, Australia) 

  6. Hornsdale Power Reserve (South Australia, Australia) 

  7. Stocking Pelham Battery (Hertfordshire, England, UK) 

  8. The Buzen Substation BESS (Buzen, Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan) 

  9. EnspireME Battery (Jardelund, Germany) 

  10. Notrees Energy Storage System (Texas, USA) 

1. Edwards & Sanborn Solar Plus Storage Project  
Spearheaded by Terra-Gen, this behemoth stands in California, USA, as the largest battery storage system worldwide, boasting an impressive 875 MW / 3,287 MWh across 4,600 acres. Launched in 2021, it utilizes 1.9 million solar modules and over 120,000 batteries. This project melds solar energy production with vast energy storage on a grand scale, showcasing the synergy between renewable energy generation and advanced storage technology. These ambitions set a new benchmark for solar plus storage projects globally. 

2. The Moss Landing Energy Storage Facility  
With its capacity reaching an astounding 750 MW / 3,000 MWh after its latest expansion, Moss Landing is one of the largest lithium-ion battery storage systems in the world. Standing in California, USA, this monumental project was launched in phases starting in December 2020 by Vistra Energy in partnership with Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E). With thousands of batteries, the facility plays a crucial role in storing excess solar and wind energy and providing it back to the grid during periods of high demand. 

3. The Dalian Flow Battery Energy Storage Peak-Shaving Power Station  
This mega battery is located in Dalian, Liaoning Province, China. Unveiled in 2022, this facility is at the forefront of flow battery technology, boasting an initial capacity of 100 MW / 400 MWh, with ambitions to expand to 200 MW / 800 MWh. Unlike its lithium-ion counterparts, the Dalian station utilizes a unique electrolyte flow system, setting new standards for non-lithium energy storage solutions worldwide.  

4. PG&E Battery Energy Storage (BESS) Elkhorn Battery Project  
Teaming up with Tesla, PG&E has unleashed a vast energy storage site upon the world capable of delivering 182.5 MW / 730 MWh. Operational since 2021 in California, USA, this project harnesses the power of 256 Tesla Megapacks to enhance grid reliability and support California's clean energy transition. The Elkhorn Battery also reduces energy costs, with potential savings of up to $100 million over two decades, a significant stride in sustainable power management. 

5. The Victorian Big Battery  
Sprawling near Geelong, Australia, the Victorian Big Battery burst onto the scene in 2021, flaunting an imposing 300 MW/450 MWh capacity. Crafted by a collaboration between Tesla, the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO), the Victorian Government, Neoen, and AusNet Services, this colossal installation covers an expanse reminiscent of an Aussie rules football stadium. Comprising 200 Tesla Megapacks, these lithium-ion marvels collectively form one of the largest batteries in the world. Beyond being a powerhouse, the VBB stands as a grid stability superhero, instantly supplying power during network outages, fortifying the region for a resilient energy future as Victoria transitions to 50% renewable energy by 2030. 

6. The Hornsdale Power Reserve  
In Jamestown, South Australia, the Hornsdale Power Reserve, activated in 2017 with funding from Tesla and managed by Neoen, originally boasted a groundbreaking 100 MW / 129 MWh capacity. This facility quickly became a global benchmark for large-scale lithium-ion battery storage. Following its initial success, an expansion completed in 2020 increased its capacity to 150 MW / 193.5 MWh. The HPR is the poster child for battery storage, proving that big batteries can be big savers, too, achieving over $180 million in savings for South Australian consumers.  

7. The Stocking Pelham Battery  
UK's largest battery launched in July 2018 in Hertfordshire, England. Developed by British Solar Renewables and constructed by Ovenden Allworks, this marvel spans 4,500 square meters and packs a powerful punch with a 50 MW/50 MWh capacity. Inside, intricate components such as seven SMA E-houses, 150,000 lithium-ion battery cells, a kilometer of cabling, 27 inverters, and an SMA Power Plant Controller work in harmony. With the ability to power 13,000 British homes, the Pelham BESS adapts to varying demands, ensuring a consistent power supply. 

8. The Buzen Substation BESS 
Step into the future with the Buzen Substation BESS in Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan, launched in 2016 by Mitsubishi Electric Corporation. As the world's largest sodium-sulfur battery system, it integrates seamlessly into Kyushu Electric Power Co.'s local grid. With a massive 50 MW output and 300 MWh capacity, the Buzen BESS comprises 252 containers, each providing 200 kW. Double-stacked and arranged in 63 units spanning 150,000 square feet, precision is maintained with Mitsubishi's BLEnDer® RE battery SCADA system. This sodium-sulfur powerhouse redefines energy storage, offering a peek at what's possible beyond lithium-ion. 

9. The EnspireME Battery  
Jardelund, Germany, is home to a European energy giant launched in 2018 with a 48 MW capacity—the EnspireME Battery. Developed by Mitsubishi and Eneco, this lithium-ion marvel consists of 10,000 batteries actively supplying reserve capacity to the regional grid. Powering 5,300 German homes, it is strategically positioned to store excess energy from wind farms, reducing blind capacity and preventing grid overloads during windy periods. 

10. Notrees Energy Storage System  
Enter the largest battery in Texas, a 36 MW battery farm launched in 2012 by Duke Energy Renewables. Initially utilizing lead-acid technology, it made the transition to lithium-ion in 2017, thanks to federal grants exceeding $21 million from the U.S. Department of Energy. Connected to the ERCOT grid, this system plays a vital role in balancing energy delivery. Duke Energy collaborated with Xtreme Power for the lead-acid phase and now employs Samsung SDI battery technology, managed by Younicos. 

And that concludes our journey through the world's largest batteries, each one a technical marvel. Thanks for reading and may your curiosity be sparked! Click here to explore, or connect with us on LinkedIn for the latest in the world of technology and simulations.