Groton Electric Light Department (GELD), in collaboration with Lightshift Energy, a leading developer and operator of energy storage projects, recently held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the launch of their second battery storage and microgrid project in Groton, Massachusetts. This new energy storage system, known as the Groton II microgrid, became operational in August 2024 and aims to support the community by easing grid demand during peak electricity periods and providing reliable backup power to Florence Roche Elementary School.
The 3-megawatt project is designed to deliver both financial and reliability benefits. By reducing strain on the grid during high-demand times, it will help GELD save millions of dollars for its customers. At the same time, the system ensures uninterrupted power to a key public facility during outages, making it a valuable asset for local emergency preparedness.
Patterson said in a statement, “We are proud to offer the school and our ratepayers in Groton an innovative solution to help maintain low rates while enhancing reliability, reducing Groton’s peak demand, and lowering carbon emissions.”
Rory Jones, Lightshift Co-Founder and Managing Partner, stated, “Groton II delivers both cost savings and critical backup power, maximizing the value of energy storage for the community. This project reflects the leadership and innovative thinking of GELD, and we’re proud to partner on their efforts to strengthen local energy resilience, support clean energy and create value for the community.”
Danillo Sena, State Representative Danillo Sena, mentioned, “The Groton II microgrid provides an innovative solution to providing energy at the Florence Roche Elementary School and to residents of Groton. The project is a unique and exciting opportunity to lower energy prices while providing backup power to vital infrastructure. I’m so excited to see the success of this new microgrid!”
The event was attended by several state representatives, including Massachusetts Undersecretary of Energy Michael Judge, who praised the project as an example of the state’s commitment to clean energy innovation. The Groton II microgrid builds on the success of Groton I, another 3-megawatt system launched in July 2024. Together, these projects reflect GELD’s leadership among municipal utilities in deploying multi-use microgrids that enhance both energy savings and critical infrastructure resilience. GELD Manager Jonathan Patterson expressed the utility’s pride in bringing advanced energy solutions to the community through its ongoing partnership with Lightshift Energy.
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