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Local water leaders and elected officials are hailing a new, landmark water-energy project using advanced energy storage systems to better integrate renewable power, reduce demand on the electric grid and lower costs. Inland Empire Utilities Agency and clean tech energy storage leader Advanced Microgrid Solutions (AMS), based in San Francisco, have developed the first-of-its-kind energy storage system as a link between storage and renewable resources at a public water agency.
Installed and activated in advance of last week’s dedication ceremony, the water-energy project positions IEUA as the industry’s leader in its approach to sustainability and carbon reduction. It addresses the link between water and the energy needed to process and transport it, known as the “water-energy nexus,” and thereby allows IEUA to protect its customers from a variety of industry issues – demands on the electric grid, more renewable power and a potential safeguard to rising costs.
U.S. Rep Norma J. Torres lauded the new project saying, “Investing in clean, efficient resources is the best way to lay the foundation for a sustainable water and energy future,” said U.S. Rep. Norma J. Torres (D-Pomona). “This project is a tremendous example of what can be built upon that foundation and will serve as a model to utility agencies and local and state governments across the country.”
The 3.65 MW of advanced energy storage are installed within six of IEUA’s regional water-recycling facilities and pump stations. Additionally, the agency will be able to save five to 10 percent of its energy costs each year and the storage system will also help integrate IEUA’s renewable resources, which include 3.5 MW of solar, 1 MW of wind and 2.8 MW of biofuel cell generation.
According to the California Energy Commission, the transportation and treatment of water, treatment and disposal of wastewater and the energy used to heat and consume water account for nearly 20 percent of all the total electricity and 30 percent of non-power plant related natural gas consumed in California.
“It’s exciting to see our local agency setting an example with the kind of innovative investment we in the legislature have encouraged,” said State Senator Connie Leyva (D-Chino). “IEUA’s forward thinking is a boon to Inland Empire water and electricity consumers, in that our communities will benefit from increased reliability and reduced demand on the electric grid.”
Beginning with the construction of its headquarters buildings in 2003, IEUA became the first public building in the nation to be awarded a LEED platinum rating. In addition to existing solar and wind power, in 2010, the agency installed the largest fuel cell system powered by renewable biogas in the world and reduced energy consumption by nearly 25 percent with aggressive energy efficiency measures including installation of sub-metering equipment, retrofits of lighting and pumps, and repair of aeration systems to minimize leaks, and other solutions. The agency is recognized as a leader in clean energy and environmental stewardship.
“IEUA’s leadership when it comes to water management and renewable energy is recognized across the whole industry,” said Susan Kennedy, AMS founder and CEO. “Displaying the foresight to tackle the water-energy nexus head on is further demonstration of that leadership on behalf of the agency, the industry and water customers all throughout its service territory.”
Speaking at the dedication event which featured thought leaders from the energy industry and water agencies, as well as local and federal elected officials, IEUA Board President Terry Catlin said, “We remain proud of our investments in energy efficiency, renewable generation and sustainable water management practices. Energy storage is the key to maximizing the value of those investments, allowing us to use our resources more efficiently, reduce costs for our customers and participate in building a more resilient electric grid for the whole region.”
