Ørsted, a global leader in renewable energy, has entered into a strategic partnership with Mission Clean Energy to develop a significant 1 gigawatt (GW) of standalone battery energy storage systems (BESS) across the Midwest. This collaboration not only strengthens Ørsted’s U.S. clean energy portfolio but also marks its first foray into standalone storage development, signaling a strategic expansion beyond its existing renewable energy projects.
The partnership is set to enhance Ørsted’s capabilities in the ever-evolving energy landscape, where storage solutions are becoming increasingly critical. James Giamarino, Chief Commercial Officer at Ørsted, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “Continuing to invest in and build out storage solutions is critical for ensuring a resilient and reliable grid.” This partnership allows Ørsted to leverage its financial resources and operational expertise to secure interconnection positions for the four projects, while Mission Clean Energy takes the lead in their development.
For Mission Clean Energy, this collaboration is a landmark achievement. Max Bakker, CEO of Mission Clean Energy, highlighted the synergy between the two companies, noting that Ørsted’s financial strength and experience will complement Mission’s development capabilities. The projects, which have already submitted interconnection applications within the Mid-Continent Independent System Operator (MISO) Central and North regions, are strategically positioned to meet the growing demand for storage capacity, driven by an increasing shift towards non-emitting energy sources.
The strategic placement of these storage systems will address the rising volatility in the grid, ensuring that the energy supply remains stable and reliable. The Midwest, with its changing energy supply dynamics, represents a key region where such infrastructure is vital. Ørsted’s decision to partner with Mission on this venture underscores the company’s commitment to expanding its storage portfolio, not just in the Midwest but across the U.S.
This partnership is Ørsted’s first standalone battery storage collaboration, further diversifying its renewable energy offerings, which already include significant co-located solar and storage projects. Among these is the 300 MW/1200 MWh storage project at the Eleven Mile Solar Center in Arizona, one of the largest of its kind in the United States. As Ørsted continues to build its renewable energy portfolio, this latest venture positions the company to play an even more critical role in the U.S. energy market, particularly in the rapidly growing storage sector.
By aligning with Mission Clean Energy, Ørsted is poised to deliver impactful clean energy solutions that will not only enhance grid resilience but also contribute to the broader transition towards a sustainable energy future.
