PowerSecure, a subsidiary of Southern Company, has begun construction of a 5‑MW battery energy‑storage system paired with a 1.25‑MWdc solar array in Moorcroft, Wyoming. The combined installation will deliver 21.6 MWh of storage capacity and is slated to be operational in 2027, providing peak‑load management and backup power for Powder River Energy Corporation (PRECorp).
The project is financed in part by a $23.5 million loan from the USDA’s Powering Affordable Clean Energy (PACE) program, which offers loan forgiveness and tax credits. PRECorp, which serves more than 12,000 members across five northeastern Wyoming counties, expects the new system to reduce annual wholesale power costs by up to $1 million and to modernize its aging Moorcroft distribution substation. Jim Smith, President of PowerSecure, said, "This project is about delivering real value for PRECorp's members. By combining battery storage and solar generation, we're helping the cooperative manage peak demand, strengthen reliability and control costs while helping to ensure the system is ready to support future growth."
PowerSecure’s expansion of distributed energy resources (DERs) aligns with Southern Company’s broader goal of achieving net‑zero emissions by 2050 and adding over 20,000 MW of renewable and storage capacity by the mid‑2030s. The Wyoming project demonstrates how DERs can enhance grid resilience for rural utilities, a key focus for Southern Company’s strategy to support underserved regions. Brian Mills, CEO of PRECorp, added, "Our value to our members, has always been, we have to be a trusted energy partner. This entire project is loaded with technology and experience that will equip that very value point that the members have of our cooperative."
The initiative not only delivers tangible cost savings for PRECorp but also positions PowerSecure as a leader in microgrid and DER deployment. By integrating battery storage with solar generation, the project provides a scalable model that can be replicated across other rural cooperatives, reinforcing Southern Company’s commitment to grid modernization and renewable integration.
The content on EveryTicker is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial or investment advice. We are not financial advisors. Consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. Any actions you take based on information from this site are solely at your own risk.