TUCSON, Ariz. (KGUN) — Tucson Electric Power (TEP) is set to construct Arizona’s largest battery energy system, called “Roadrunner Reserve.”
This system will have a massive 200-megawatt system that can store 800 megawatt hours of energy, equivalent to powering 42,000 homes for four hours. The construction of this system should begin in the summer of 2025 and will be built in southeast Tucson, near Vail, Ariz.
The TEP stated the system will charge during the productive morning and afternoon solar periods as well as deliver stored energy during peak demand, bringing low-cost solar energy to customers.
According to the TEP's 2020 Integrated Resource Plan, this new system will reduce carbon emissions by 80% and add up to 1,400 MW of energy storage by 2035. On top of the most recent additions of renewable resources, the Roadrunner Reserve will expand, making for a greener grid.
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Bri Pacelli is a multimedia journalist for KGUN 9. Bri is a graduate from Arizona State University's Walter Cronkite School, where she earned a degree in journalism and mass communication. She interned with Criminal Minded Media, a podcast company focused on Arizona's historical crime. Share your story ideas and important issues with Bri by emailing bri.pacelli@kgun9.com or by connecting on Instagram.
