EVLO Energy Storage Inc., a provider of fully integrated battery energy storage systems and a subsidiary of Hydro-Québec, has completed the commissioning of a 4-megawatt (MW), 8-megawatt-hour (MWh), 2-hour duration energy storage system in American Samoa. This is the first of three planned solar-plus-storage projects being developed in partnership with Eastern Power Solutions (EPS), a solar energy service provider. The projects are designed to support the American Samoa Power Authority (ASPA) in delivering sustainable, reliable, and affordable utility services to the local population.
The three systems are being installed across the islands of Tutuila and Aunu’u and will have capacities of 4 MW/8 MWh, 5 MW/10 MWh, and 1 MW/2 MWh respectively. All installations are equipped with the EVLO 1000 BESS and will help manage ramp rate control by stabilizing fluctuations in solar photovoltaic (PV) power output. This will enhance the integration of renewable energy and contribute to maintaining grid reliability across the islands.
Sonia St-Arnaud, President and CEO of EVLO, said in a statement, “At EVLO, we are dedicated to delivering safe and efficient energy storage solutions to utilities and power producers aiming to incorporate cleaner technologies into their energy mix. This project demonstrates the mutual commitment we have, with ASPA and EPS, towards a cleaner future and a more resilient electrical network. By providing robust, fully integrated BESS solutions and meeting clients’ needs wherever they are, EVLO ensures grid stability and supports the integration of renewable energy sources from mainland areas to isolated regions.”
EPS COO Scott Bonney, stated, “Eastern Power Solutions is very proud to lead construction on these projects in American Samoa. With an international presence, we remain one of the most active companies bringing turn-key solar solutions to U.S. territories. The commissioning of this site illustrates the early achievements of our collaboration with EVLO and ASPA in solar and storage power generation projects.”
ASPA, a public utility responsible for electricity, water, wastewater, and solid waste services, serves approximately 50,000 residents in American Samoa. The region currently relies heavily on imported fossil fuels for nearly all of its energy needs. The integration of battery storage with solar energy is seen as a critical step in reducing this dependence and improving energy resilience.
In 2016, the American Samoa Renewable Energy Committee (ASREC) outlined a target to meet 100% of the territory’s energy needs with renewable sources by 2040, with a primary focus on solar power. The BESS projects led by EVLO and EPS will play a vital role in helping the territory meet these long-term goals.
Located in the South Pacific, American Samoa consists of five islands and two coral atolls, covering an area of around 76 square miles. As a remote archipelago situated less than 1,000 miles south of the equator, it benefits from high solar exposure year-round. These energy storage projects are essential to enabling greater use of solar power, reducing fuel imports, and ensuring a stable and sustainable power supply for the islands.
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