Chugach battery storage project will improve reliability and efficiency

Chugach is investing in a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) that will primarily serve as a reliability and efficiency project, focused on improving the primary frequency response on the Railbelt Transmission System. Battery storage technology enables utilities to store energy for later use and allows for more efficient natural gas generation.

The battery will enable Chugach to generate the same amount of power consuming less natural gas. Battery storage is also one of several technology options that allow flexibility in the power system and make it possible to integrate high levels of renewable energy, such as wind and solar. 

The BESS, a Tesla Megapack system, is rated at 40 Megawatts for two hours. It will be located just south of the Chugach headquarters building on Electron Drive. Matanuska Electric Association, Inc. will have a 25% interest in the BESS project. The project is expected to be on line in October 2024.