FPL is leading the charge in energy storage technology. The company has researched battery storage solutions for several years to learn about the variety of potential benefits, from grid stabilization to improved solar integration. And, as part of our Real Zero goal to eliminate carbon emissions from FPL’s power plant fleet by no later than 2045, battery storage would see a dramatic increase across the state of Florida.
How Solar and Energy Storage Work Together
With energy storage, we are able to store the energy generated by a solar energy center and send it to the grid when it's needed the most.
FPL's rapid integration of solar and energy storage
Energy storage is key to leveraging the rapid solar expansion that would be required to meet FPL's Real Zero goal. These initiatives enable FPL customers to benefit from solar even when the sun’s not shining. Batteries have a unique advantage because they can store the energy produced at solar energy centers when the sun’s rays are strongest. In 2018, FPL unveiled two solar-plus-storage projects – a 10-megawatt (MW) battery storage project at FPL Babcock Ranch Solar Energy Center in Charlotte County and a 4-MW battery storage project at Citrus Solar Energy Center in Desoto County. Babcock was the largest combined solar-plus-storage facility in the U.S. at the time, and Citrus was the first large-scale application of "DC-coupled" batteries at a solar plant in the nation. Three years later, FPL commissioned the largest solar-powered battery in the world at the time in Manatee County, which features a 409-MW capacity.
Manatee Energy Storage Center
One of the world's largest solar-powered batteries
Located in Parrish, Florida, this 409-MW by 900-megawatt-hour (MWh) battery storage system is the size of 30 football fields and has the same charging capacity as approximately 100 million iPhone batteries. The battery stores solar energy generated by the FPL Manatee Solar Energy Center and sends it to the grid when it’s needed most.
Increasing reliability through cutting-edge microgrid technology
FPL is conducting microgrid research through a variety of projects which could hold major implications for the future of grid stability and reliability. Microgrid technology enables an energy source to transition between “islanded” (or autonomous) and grid-connected operations. The ability to operate autonomously increases reliability during emergency situations like hurricanes.
FIU Microgrid
A microgrid partnership with FPL
FPL partnered with FIU’s Engineering Center to develop a microgrid that will supply backup power to the university’s engineering campus during severe weather events. The project adds a 3-MW battery to an existing FIU-FPL solar array, enabling faculty and students to conduct research and gain hands-on experience with the innovative technology.
Tyndall Air Force Base Microgrid
An "Installation of the Future" partnership with FPL
FPL partnered with the Department of the Air Force to install a microgrid which includes a 150-kW photovoltaic solar array and a 450-kW/1,575-kWh battery energy storage system at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, representing the Air Force’s first Energy Assurance Lease. Both parties are leveraging the operational data provided by this clean, renewable energy.
EVolution Hub in Riviera Beach
Movable solar-powered EV charging stations
The FPL EVolution Hub Pilot will be located at our 45th Street facility in Riviera Beach, Florida. 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 trailers. The project will enable FPL to test the design and benefits of movable EV charging stations and gain further insight into microgrid technology.
Leveraging energy storage to improve reliability and meet the increasing demand for power
For many years, FPL has been testing multiple applications of advanced battery storage technologies to improve reliability, meet the increasing demand for power and develop a stronger, smarter energy grid for our customers.
Wynwood Battery Storage
Helps FPL learn how to better power urban areas where development is at full speed
FPL’s building-sized battery located in Miami’s Wynwood neighborhood stores enough energy to power 7,000 homes for four hours. Designed to meet the area’s increasing demand for power, the battery is helping address how energy capacity can be added in densely populated areas. In partnership with Goldman Global Arts, FPL hired local illustrator and muralist, Ernesto Maranje, to create a mural that reflects the neighborhood’s vibrant art culture.
Dania Beach
"Black start" capability for a more reliable grid
FPL’s 11.5-MW battery at the Dania Beach Clean Energy Center in Dania Beach is designed to enhance reliability for FPL customers and the grid. FPL will use the battery to “black start” large generating units. In the event of a total or partial grid outage, the battery can restore power to the generating units on its own without support from the grid.
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