NextEra and Platte River Launch Large-scale Battery Storage Project in Colorado
NextEra Energy Resources and Platte River Power Authority have officially broken ground on the Weld Energy Center, a 100 MW battery energy storage facility located in Weld County, Colorado.
The project is owned and operated by Weld Energy Center LLC, a subsidiary of NextEra Energy Resources, and marks Platte River’s first large-scale battery storage deployment.
The facility is designed to store excess electricity and release it during periods of peak demand, improving grid flexibility and supporting the integration of renewable energy sources.
According to the project partners, battery storage is becoming a key technology for balancing supply and demand and reducing the need for new conventional generation. The system will also enhance grid performance during extreme weather events and high usage periods.
Platte River Power Authority CEO Jason Frisbie said:
“This project represents the kind of forward-thinking approach that has historically defined Platte River. As we approach the retirement of our flagship coal unit in 2029, projects like this are essential to maintaining reliability and advancing our clean energy transition.”
NextEra Energy Resources Vice President Dexter Liu highlighted the growing importance of storage infrastructure:
“Weld Energy Center represents the next generation of energy infrastructure in Colorado. As electricity demand continues to grow, battery energy storage is playing an increasingly important role in maintaining reliability and supporting economic growth.”
The project represents a local investment of approximately $141 million and is expected to create more than 200 construction jobs. It is also projected to generate over $6.8 million in tax revenue over 20 years, supporting public services in Weld County.
Completion of the facility will add 100 MW of flexible capacity to Colorado’s grid, strengthening long-term reliability and renewable integration.
Source: prpa.org
