California Advances Clean Energy with New Battery Storage Approval
The California Energy Commission (CEC) has made strides in its clean energy initiatives by approving a substantial battery energy storage system. This decision marks the third major clean energy project endorsed under the Opt-In Certification program within a year, adding a significant capacity of clean energy to the state’s grid.
SACRAMENTO — The CEC recently granted approval for the Potentia-Viridi Battery Energy Storage System, a project by Levy Alameda, LLC, a subsidiary of Clearway Energy Group. Located in eastern Alameda County, the project will boast a 400 MW battery energy storage system (BESS) capable of storing up to 3,200 megawatt-hours (MWh) of energy. This initiative aims to store excess solar or low-cost grid electricity, enhancing California’s grid reliability and aiding in meeting its clean energy objectives.
Construction of the Potentia-Viridi project is slated to begin in May 2027, lasting approximately 18 months. It is expected to create an average of 97 jobs per month, peaking at 127 jobs monthly in certain phases. Moreover, the project will sustain 18 full-time positions throughout its anticipated 35-year lifespan. Levy Alameda has also committed to community engagement, establishing agreements that will allocate $925,000 over two decades to local organizations, with the potential for an additional $200,000 in contributions.
CEC Commissioner Noemi Gallardo remarked, “The Opt-In Certification program proves that California can permit critical clean energy infrastructure fast while maintaining rigorous environmental review, public transparency, tribal consultation and community engagement.”
Earlier this year, in April 2026, the CEC approved the Soda Mountain Solar Project in San Bernardino County. This project combines 300 MW of solar power with 300 MW/1,200 MWh of battery storage. Additionally, the Darden Clean Energy Project in Fresno County, approved in June 2025, is expected to generate 1,150 MW of solar power and 1,150 MW/4,600 MWh of storage capacity upon completion.
The Opt-In Certification program emphasizes community and economic benefits, with these three projects cumulatively contributing:
- 1,450 MW of solar generation and 1,850 MW of storage capacity, amounting to 9,000 MWh of electricity storage.
- Over 2,300 construction jobs across California, alongside numerous full-time operational positions.
- Community investments surpassing $3 million.
- Substantial long-term tax revenues and indirect economic opportunities.
CEC Chair David Hochschild stated, “Process innovation matters as much as technological innovation, and Opt-In certification is a perfect example of Governor Newsom’s commitment to building more, faster.”
The Opt-In Certification Program, a product of Assembly Bill 205, provides a streamlined state permitting option for clean energy projects. It aims to support California’s transition to 100 percent renewable and zero-carbon electricity by 2045, as outlined by Senate Bill 100. This program integrates environmental assessments, public transparency, and tribal consultations to ensure thorough project evaluation.
For more insights on the program, visit the Opt-In Certification Program webpage.
Battery Storage Safety and Standards
California prioritizes the safe development and operation of battery energy storage systems. The CEC collaborates with various agencies to enhance safety protocols, including updates to the California Fire Code and new safety measures approved by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). These initiatives ensure the state remains at the forefront of safe battery storage technology deployment.
To achieve certification, projects must meet rigorous safety and environmental standards, including:
- Compliance with premier safety standards, such as those set by the California Fire Code and NFPA 855.
- Continuous collaboration with local fire departments for incident preparedness.
- Establishment of command centers for incident management.
- Real-time environmental monitoring for air and water quality.
- Implementation of safety measures like deflagration panels and thermal infrared cameras.
For further details on battery storage safety, visit CPUC’s safety standards update.
Original Story at www.energy.ca.gov