Florida's largest utility, Florida Power & Light (FPL), is ramping up its energy storage ambitions across the Sunshine State, with plans to deploy over 2. 2GW of new BESS between 2026 and 2027.
With a 469MW operational battery energy storage system (BESS) portfolio, FPL has been at the forefront of utility-scale energy storage deployment in the southeastern US over the past five years, with this recent news likely to solidify its standing in the space.
How will FPL's battery storage projects impact Florida's energy grid?
FPL's staggered deployment of these battery storage projects ensures a seamless integration into Florida's energy grid. Phase One (2026): Seven sites will go live by July, with all projects in the phase completed by November. Technology: All 24 facilities will utilize lithium-ion storage, enabling efficient energy retention from solar generation.
Why is FPL launching a solar & battery storage project?
FPL president and CEO Eric Silagy said his company's buildout of solar and battery storage projects has been cost-effective for customers, helping to keep bills lower over the long term. This was the aspect of Manatee's unveiling that made him “most proud,” Silagy said.
What is FPL & how does it work?
FPL filled the night sky with light and a drone display powered by the solar battery charged with power from the solar array adjacent to the Manatee Energy Storage Center in Parrish, Florida, during a commissioning ceremony.
This innovative energy storage project comprises a 5-MW solar array and a 7.5-MW by 15-MWh stationary battery, as well as two mobile EV fast charging trailers. The project enables FPL to test the design and benefits of mobile EV charging stations and gain further insight into microgrid technology.
How many iPhone batteries will the FPL Manatee energy storage center have?
According to an FPL press release, the facility will have 409MW capacity; the equivalent of approximately 100 million iPhone batteries, when it begins operating in late 2021. With this capacity, the FPL Manatee Energy Storage Center will be four times the capacity of the current largest battery system in operation.