Utility-Scale Battery Energy Storage Adds Reliability, Lowers Carbon Emissions

Slocum Battery Energy Storage project marks Michigan’s first utility-scale battery energy storage project, and a significant step towards DTE’s aspiration to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050. The 14-megawatt lithium-ion battery will have a 4-hour storage capacity, designed to discharge during peak energy demand or as needed to meet customer load. We’ve worked alongside DTE as engineer of record throughout the project’s duration, from the feasibility study to engineering design.

To determine the optimal project site, we worked with DTE on a feasibility study assessing multiple DTE peaker stations for suitability to transition to a battery energy storage system. The study considered schedule requirements and budgetary estimates of infrastructure costs. We also led a benchmarking study, enabling DTE to compare installation costs with similar facilities in the U.S.

DTE elected to renovate and modernize a peaker station that housed five 2.75-megawatt diesel-fired engines, replacing the engines and outdated plant equipment with a Li-Ion BESS, a power distribution centre that houses medium-voltage switchgear, and a station step-up transformer. Updating the vintage peaker station enables DTE to reuse existing transmission interconnection, and directly deliver energy into the regional grid.

Our partnership continues in a design-bid-build capacity where we are developing demolition specifications, procurement packages, providing detailed design and permitting services, and supporting the selection and monitoring of construction contractor scope. We’re proud to work alongside DTE and support them one step further in integrating emerging technologies to meet growing demand for clean, affordable, reliable energy.