Many people in our community are facing challenging times, and no one wants to see rising electric bills. At Noble REMC, we recognize our responsibility to keep costs as low as possible while ensuring our system can keep up with increased demand.
To stay one step ahead, and in partnership with our power supplier, Wabash Valley Power Alliance (WVPA), we recently introduced our Substation Battery Program, which will assist in providing both continued reliability and affordability.
Now that the batteries are installed and storing energy, we thought it might help to answer a few questions about the benefits and the basics of the innovative program:
WHAT IS THE SUBSTATION BATTERY PROGRAM?
WVPA, Noble REMC, and other participating member co-ops are installing behind-the-meter battery energy storage systems (BESS) within designated substations. For us, that includes five of our seven substations across our service territory.
The cost of installing and operating the BESS is being fully funded by WVPA, since the system is an investment to save all of its member co-ops money in demand charges.
HOW DOES IT BENEFIT YOU, OUR MEMBERS?
The program will harness the battery systems to store electricity for local use. This helps keep electric rates stable, improves reliability, and supports our community’s long-term energy needs.
DOES THAT ELECTRICITY STAY LOCAL?
Yes. This battery operates “behind the meter,” meaning the electricity stays local. When discharged, the power will flow directly into Noble REMC’s distribution system — the same network that serves homes, businesses, schools, and farms in our community. For example, our Albion Substation batteries will be able to distribute 2 MW for four hours, powering 1,100 homes if needed.
HOW DOES THIS PROGRAM IMPROVE RELIABILITY AND STABILIZE COSTS?
Electricity is normally used at the same time it is generated — it cannot be stored without special equipment.
A battery allows us to:
- Store electricity when demand is low and use it when demand or prices are high
- Provide backup power in emergencies
- Reduce stress on the system during extreme weather
ARE THE BATTERIES SAFE?
Yes. The technology used in the Substation Battery Program includes multiple layers of protection:
- 24/7 remote monitoring for quick detection and response
- Remote shutdown capability, if needed
- Coordination with first responders for training and emergency planning
The entire system has been tested to ensure that even a rare malfunction is contained within the enclosure and is no danger to the public.
Noble REMC works hard to ensure our members feel confident that they will have the energy they need, when and where they need it, and at a reasonable price. This program is another piece in safeguarding that mission.