BHE Renewables is nearing completion of the first phase of West Virginia's inaugural microgrid project, set to provide clean energy for the new Timet titanium alloy plant in Jackson County.

The microgrid, which will eventually span 2,000 acres, is designed to supply up to 70% of the facility's electricity needs using solar power. The project is being constructed directly across Route 2 from the Timet site, with underground infrastructure connecting the two.

According to Andrew Robinson, Regional Director for Business Development at BHE Renewables, the microgrid will reach 106 megawatts of capacity once all three phases are complete. Battery storage will also be integrated to ensure reliability.

The project was made possible through recent legislation enabling microgrids to serve new load customers--a key factor in attracting BHE Renewables to the state. The company is a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway, which began exploring West Virginia's potential after Senator Glen Jefferies contacted then-company president Warren Buffett to highlight opportunities in clean energy and manufacturing.

Robinson noted that while the current microgrid is designed specifically for Timet, BHE Renewables plans to recruit additional manufacturers to the region who could benefit from flexible, renewable energy solutions.

Production at the Timet facility is expected to begin by the end of the year, alongside the activation of the first phase of the microgrid.

Source: wvmetronews.com