EDP Renewables completes 92-MW Sandrini BESS project in California

EDP Renewables North America, a subsidiary of Portuguese utility EDP SA, has completed construction of the 92-MW/368-MWh Sandrini battery energy storage system (BESS) in Kern County, California. The project marks another step in the company's strategy to expand its clean energy storage portfolio across the United States, particularly in regions with high renewable penetration and grid flexibility needs.

The Sandrini facility is designed to store and dispatch electricity during peak demand periods, helping to stabilize the grid and integrate intermittent renewable sources such as solar and wind. With California aggressively pursuing its goal of a carbon-free electricity grid by 2045, energy storage systems like Sandrini are becoming critical infrastructure assets that enhance grid reliability while reducing reliance on fossil-fuel peaker plants.

The project adds to EDP Renewables' growing footprint in the U.S. energy storage market. The company has been actively developing battery storage projects alongside its wind and solar installations, leveraging its experience in large-scale renewable development to deliver flexible, dispatchable power solutions. The 368-MWh capacity at Sandrini enables multi-hour discharge, making it well-suited for evening peak demand windows and grid congestion relief.

Industry observers note that the completion of the Sandrini project reflects a broader trend among renewable developers to pair generation assets with storage capabilities. As more states and utilities adopt clean energy mandates, battery systems are increasingly viewed not just as ancillary components but as core elements of a modern, resilient power network. The project also underscores the growing role of California's Central Valley as a hub for utility-scale storage development, driven by favorable interconnection conditions and strong state policy support.

With the Sandrini BESS now operational, EDP Renewables continues to advance its pipeline of storage projects across North America, reinforcing its position as a key player in the transition to a more flexible and sustainable energy system.