Burbank Water and Power announced the commissioning of its first long-duration energy storage (LDES) system, a milestone in the city’s transition to sustainable energy solutions.
Elected officials including Mayor Nick Schultz, state Sen. Anthony Portantino and members of the Burbank City Council celebrated the installation and commissioning of the 75 kW/500 kWh ESS Energy Warehouse iron flow battery on the BWP EcoCampus. The system, integrated with a 265-kW solar array, will provide enough renewable power for 300 homes annually. The iron flow battery, developed by ESS Tech, will play a crucial role in supporting the increased use of renewable power in Burbank.
BWP is driving toward a greenhouse gas-free power supply by 2040, five years earlier than mandated by the state of California. The iron flow battery technology is not only safe and non-toxic but also boasts a 25-year lifespan without capacity degradation. The battery was manufactured in the United States using domestically sourced, earth-abundant materials, aligning with BWP’s commitment to sustainability and innovation.
“The commissioning of the Energy Warehouse battery is a pivotal moment in our ongoing efforts to ensure a sustainable energy future for Burbank,” said Mandip Samra, general manager of Burbank Water and Power. “We are excited to enhance the reliability and resilience of our grid while maximizing the use of renewable energy.”
First published in the June 8 print issue of the Burbank Leader.
