Aligned Data Centers, Calibrant Energy collaborate on battery storage project for grid access

Large-scale battery system enables Aligned Data Centers’ Pacific Northwest facility to access grid power years ahead of schedule, offering a scalable and sustainable model for high-performance digital infrastructure amid grid constraints.

Aligned and Calibrant to Deploy First-of-its-Kind On-Site Battery Storage Project.

Aligned Data Centers and Calibrant Energy announced a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) to facilitate access to grid power for Aligned's facility in the Pacific Northwest, expected to be operational by 2026.

The system, with a capacity of 31 Megawatt (MW) / 62 MWh, will allow the data center to begin operations significantly earlier than if reliant on conventional utility upgrades. This deployment aligns with the increasing power demands from sectors like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and advanced computing.

Calibrant’s role involves delivering an on-site solution to enhance interconnection flexibility, as they collaborated with regional utility partners since the project's inception. This partnership aimed to expedite energy solutions for large users, focusing on their power needs.

Phil Martin, CEO at Calibrant, emphasized the shift in strategy, stating, “This project flips the script on how data centers access power.” Martin noted that the solution minimizes the wait for system upgrades, using distributed energy resources to facilitate connections.

Aligned’s CEO, Andrew Schaap, highlighted the responsible nature of the project, which supports the local power grid while maintaining minimal environmental effects and costs on ratepayers. The initiative utilizes a Path to Power approach, fostering energy independence and operational reliability.

Safety and domestic manufacturing were prioritized throughout the project, employing local suppliers and adhering to stringent safety standards, showcasing a commitment to U.S. production. The battery system integrates advanced safety features, including remote monitoring and improved battery chemistry.

Calibrant and Aligned plan to explore similar projects in other markets, indicating a strategic move towards sustainable energy solutions for data centers facing power access challenges.