Batteries are making the grid more reliable: NERC

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The North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) reported that despite 30 weather-related events causing over $1 billion in damages last year, the bulk power system remained reliable, with no operator-initiated load shedding. The report highlights improvements in grid reliability, particularly in areas with significant battery energy storage systems (BESS), although challenges persist due to the rapid expansion of data centers and their impact on electricity demand.

NERC emphasized the need for accurate operational models for data centers to maintain grid stability, as they could account for a substantial portion of U.S. electricity load growth in the coming years. The report also noted the potential for utility-scale battery storage to enhance grid reliability, with projections indicating a doubling of capacity by 2026. In Texas, the integration of battery systems has already shown significant benefits in frequency response, underscoring their role as a critical component of the grid's reliability strategy.