The 126 MW energy storage system in Kern County brings LRE’s total capacity online in California to 596 MW—continuing to help meet the state’s rapidly growing energy needs
LRE (Leeward Renewable Energy) today announced that its Antelope Valley Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) – a 126-megawatt (MW) / 504 megawatt-hour (MWh) stand-alone battery facility – is now fully operational in Kern County, California. Antelope Valley BESS represents a key milestone in LRE’s energy storage strategy as its first grid-connected, stand-alone battery project and the company’s seventh clean energy project online in the state.
Antelope Valley BESS is powered by four-hour Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) batteries provided by Powin and is designed to support California’s electric grid by storing energy when demand is low and discharging it during peak periods. This capability improves grid reliability, offsets carbon-intensive generation and enhances overall energy flexibility.
“Bringing the Antelope Valley BESS facility online is a major milestone for LRE and reflects our commitment to accelerating energy innovation in California,” said Sam Mangrum, EVP Project Execution at LRE. “As our first stand-alone battery project, it expands our capabilities to deliver dispatchable power when and where it is needed most. We are proud to support the broader energy market as California transitions to a cleaner, more resilient grid that can meet growing demand.”
The project created approximately 90 jobs during construction and is expected to deliver long-term economic benefits to Kern County through local tax revenues—including an estimated $30 million in property taxes over the life of the project—and community investments.
As LRE’s seventh operating project in California, it adds to a growing portfolio that now generates enough clean electricity to power more than 28,000 homes annually while offsetting nearly 30,228 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions each year.
In line with its ongoing commitment to community partnership, LRE has supported local initiatives with donations to Rosamond Hills Senior Apartments, which provides housing for low-income seniors, and the Kern County Sheriff’s Mounted Posse, a charitable organization dedicated to community service.
“Our mission goes beyond clean energy—we strive to leave a lasting, positive impact in the communities where we operate,” added Sam Mangrum. “Antelope Valley BESS not only strengthens California’s grid but also supports economic growth and resilience in Kern County.”
LRE continues to expand its national portfolio of utility-scale wind, solar, and battery storage projects, with more than 4 GW currently operating.
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