Austin Energy has entered into a contract with Jupiter Power to add up to 100 megawatts of utility-scale battery storage to its electricity grid. The agreement, valued at about $14.4 million annually for up to 20 years, represents the largest battery storage initiative in the utility’s history and supports Austin Energy’s goal of reaching 125 megawatts of battery storage by 2027.
Mayor Kirk Watson said, “This battery storage project boosts our grid, but it’s more than an investment in infrastructure — it’s a commitment to a cleaner, more resilient energy future for Austin. We’re harnessing innovation, we’re strengthening reliability, supporting renewables and delivering on our promise to serve our community sustainably.”
Battery storage systems capture electricity during times of low demand and release it when needed most. This capability helps balance renewable energy integration, lessens reliance on fossil fuels, and improves resilience during extreme weather events.
Stuart Reilly, interim general manager of Austin Energy, stated, “This agreement reflects a commitment to modernize the grid and ensure reliable, sustainable energy for Austin Energy customers. Battery storage is an important component of our energy strategy, and we’re proud to bring this emerging technology online to benefit our community.”
The battery project is part of Austin Energy’s Resource, Generation and Climate Protection Plan to 2035. The plan aims for flexibility in moving toward clean energy while prioritizing reliability, affordability, environmental sustainability, and energy equity. By expanding flexible resources like battery storage and strategic peaking resources—used only during high demand—the utility seeks both climate progress and greater reliability.
Andy Bowman, Chief Executive Officer of Jupiter Power, commented: “We are extremely pleased to be working with Austin Energy, a nationally recognized leader in grid reliability, clean energy and efficiency, to advance their energy storage goals — especially here, where Jupiter was founded. Austin Energy has a clear vision for the future, and as both a proud customer, with headquarters in Austin, and now partner, Jupiter couldn’t be happier to be a part of it.”
