Groundbreaking Battery Storage to Power Punkin Center

Sustainable, advanced technology will soon begin providing reliable energy for customers in Punkin Center, Arizona. Instead of rebuilding about 20 miles of transmission and distribution poles and wires, Arizona Public Service (APS) has installed two battery storage systems in this rural community located about 90 miles northeast of Phoenix, making it one of the first electricity companies in the nation to use batteries in place of traditional infrastructure.

“This project is a crucial step in the right direction for Arizona’s energy future,” says Scott Bordenkircher, APS’ director of transmission and distribution technology innovation and integration. “Over the next 15 years, APS has plans to add 500 megawatts of storage capacity. This project is indicative of the type of smart grid APS envisions for customers, one that enables people to have more technology in their own homes.”

According to APS, the batteries will increase power reliability to serve the community of 600 residents. The battery project has the capability to add energy capacity as the need arises over the next five to 10 years.