Energy Storage: 2025 and Beyond

Camber, a pioneering force in commercial fleet electrification with over 1,500 DC fast chargers deployed across North America, unveiled an expansion of its partnership with CapMetro, successfully delivering 2.9 megawatts (MW) of power to the public transit agency’s primary bus depot in Austin, Texas. With the ability to charge up to 48 EV buses simultaneously, this installation supports CapMetro’s ongoing efforts to transition its bus fleet to zero-emissions vehicles.

As part of the project, Camber supplied and installed two 1440 kW Camber Charging Systems and 48 Camber Industrial Dispensers. Camber is currently supporting CapMetro with proactive and ongoing maintenance to ensure reliable operations. Camber expects to provide CapMetro with its proprietary charger and energy management software, and remote diagnostic tools to manage energy costs and lower the public fleet’s total cost of ownership.

“We’re excited to expand our partnership with CapMetro and help electrify its bus fleet, ensuring more Texans have access to clean, reliable, and affordable public transit options," said Camber President, Brendan Harney. "Our partnership with CapMetro represents a significant step forward in the electrification of public transit, showcasing how charging solutions at scale can empower communities to embrace a more sustainable future without sacrificing reliability. At Camber, we’re proud to play a role in supporting CapMetro's commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship."

“With support from Camber, we have made tremendous strides toward achieving our vision to expand and improve the public transit system in Central Texas, allowing us to open up new, entirely electric routes,” said Dave Kubicek, Executive Vice President of CapMetro. “Austin has long been at the forefront of EV adoption, and we’re committed to sustaining that leadership while ensuring our citizens reach their destinations reliably and efficiently.”

“We commend the Camber team for their incredible work in this project, a testament to the tenacity and expertise of the talented individuals who established the largest network of DC-fast chargers for fleets,” said Ewa Kozicz, Co-Founder of Anthelion Capital. “We believe in the viability of fleet electrification and it’s clear that overcoming the biggest challenge – creating reliable charging infrastructure – is key in making widespread adoption a reality. Camber’s streamlined installation process, advanced software diagnostic tools, and commitment to hands-on maintenance are paving the way for this transformation.”

In addition to dispensing power at CapMetro’s primary bus depot, Camber’s EV chargers will also deliver on-route power and range extension, so that buses return to the depot with a higher state of charge to reduce peak power demand at the central site. With on-route charging, fleet operators benefit from higher vehicle availability and reduced downtime, ensuring consistent service for travelers.

Camber’s EV charging system is interoperable with different vehicles–charging New Flyer vehicles as well as light-duty EVs–allowing one depot to support a mixed fleet with varying charging demands and power requirements. This capability not only simplifies depot management but also future-proofs operations against evolving fleet compositions and technology advancements. As the city continues to electrify its fleets, investing in building out a tailored, resilient infrastructure is paramount in establishing seamless fleet operations, reducing downtime, and a smoother road to an electrified future.

Camber | https://getcamber.com/

CapMetro | capmetro.org 

Regional grid operator PJM Interconnection has selected several electric transmission projects that will be jointly developed by Dominion Energy, American Electric Power Company through its Transource Energy affiliate and FirstEnergy Transmission, LLC across multiple states within the PJM footprint.

The companies jointly proposed the projects through PJM’s Regional Transmission Expansion Plan (RTEP) Open Window process in September 2024, and yesterday they were awarded by the PJM Board of Managers. PJM is the regional transmission organization that coordinates the transportation of wholesale electricity across the 13-state region that includes Virginia, West Virginia and Maryland.

The companies will develop the projects through the recently formed Valley Link Transmission Company, LLC joint venture. The innovative collaboration will leverage the companies’ collective expertise and resources to deliver comprehensive and cost-effective solutions that address the region’s growing power needs.

After a lengthy review process, PJM determined the joint venture’s proposed projects, among others, best met the reliability needs of the grid. The projects will support economic development while ensuring every customer has the energy they rely on every day.

“These projects are essential for the economic vitality of our region, the reliability of our grid and the everyday lives of our customers,” said Ed Baine, President of Utility Operations and Dominion Energy Virginia. “These are comprehensive solutions needed to reliably serve the growing needs of our customers, and we thank PJM for their thorough review.”

“By leveraging the collective expertise of our three companies, we have the opportunity to build robust transmission facilities that will address documented reliability concerns on the regional power grid,” said Mark Mroczynski, President, Transmission at FirstEnergy. “While we’re in the very early stages, we look forward to engaging with communities and stakeholders in the months ahead to discuss the need for these projects and listen to the ideas and concerns of our customers.”

“AEP has decades of experience with projects of the size and scope needed to serve the unprecedented growth in energy demand,” said Bob Bradish, senior vice president, Regulated Infrastructure Investment Planning for AEP. “This joint venture is a unique solution to addressing the needs of our customers and ensuring long-term reliability and continued economic growth opportunities in the region.”

The selected projects include:

• Building approximately 260 miles of 765-kilovolt (kV) transmission line and two substations between Putnam County, West Virginia and Frederick County, Maryland.
• Building approximately 155 miles of 765-kV transmission line and a substation between Campbell County, Virginia and Fauquier County, Virginia.
• Building a new substation in Caroline County, Virginia.

The projects are in the early stages of development and do not have a firm time frame yet for permitting, regulatory approvals and construction. Following PJM’s recent awards, the companies will advance the development of project details, which includes assessing potential routes and conducting thorough environmental studies.

The companies are committed to collaborating with residents, local governments and other stakeholders in the project communities at every stage of the process. Community engagement is crucial for making informed decisions that reduce or prevent potential impacts.

In addition to the jointly developed projects, PJM selected several other transmission projects that will be developed individually by each of the three companies in their service areas.

PJM Interconnection | https://www.pjm.com/

Dominion Energy | https://www.dominionenergy.com/

American Electric Power | https://www.aep.com/

FirstEnergy | firstenergycorp.com 

GridBeyond, a global AI powered energy technology company, has announced the signing of a major contract with Gore Street Energy Storage Fund to provide Scheduling Coordinator, trading, and energy optimization services for the 200MW Big Rock energy storage system located in Southern California.

GridBeyond’s AI-based Bid Optimizer is key to achieving maximum returns in the CAISO market, as shown during a multi-month simulation with several optimizers. The Bid Optimizer aligns market price forecasts with simulations of battery storage, renewable, and thermal assets to simplify decision-making while ensuring optimal bids that go beyond conventional trading strategies.

As the California grid is becoming increasingly reliant on solar power, energy storage systems are essential to mitigate the intermittency of renewable generation. The effective management of Gore Street Capital’s 200MW energy storage battery will be critical in storing excess solar energy during peak generation and releasing it during high demand periods, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and supporting grid stability, while generating revenues. GridBeyond’s CAISO optimization and proprietary must-offer strategy will be a key component of fulfilling the Big Rock Resource Adequacy contract acquired by a Goldman Sachs subsidiary in October 2024.

Alex O’Cinneide, CEO of Gore Street Capital, said, “Gore Street is committed to achieving the very best returns for all of its assets under management. We are therefore very pleased to have selected GridBeyond to partner with as Big Rock goes into operation and we move forward with the project.”

“We are thrilled to partner with Gore Street Capital on this energy storage project,” said Sean McEvoy GridBeyond President of North America. “This deal highlights our commitment to advancing energy storage optimization solutions and shows once again the accuracy of our AI based solutions in delivering greater value for our customers ensuring grid stability, and supporting decarbonization goals.”

In line with its mission to support sustainability, GridBeyond is also exploring the use of public hourly emissions API data to track and calculate the carbon impact of its bidding strategies, which will further enhance the transparency of its optimization services and contribute to measurable environmental benefits.

Gore Street Energy Storage Fund | https://www.gsenergystoragefund.com/

GridBeyond | www.gridbeyond.com

FGM-Fabral ("Fabral"), a premier metal post-frame materials manufacturer, announced the launch of Fabral Solar to capitalize on the rapidly growing solar energy complex and its need for premium steel racking for solar panel installation.

Fabral continues to lead the metal roofing industry through its innovation and customer-centric model and the launch of Fabral Solar allows it to extend that leadership into the world of solar.

The North American energy market is evolving, and solar energy is a vital part of the new equation. According to a study by the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), solar accounted for 64% of all new electricity-generating capacity added into the U.S. grid in 2024, a 21% increase from the end of 2023.

"After 50+ years of providing solutions to the metal construction industry, Fabral is extending its reach into the solar energy industry in a significant way," said Fabral Solar co-founder John Cummings. "Our team will leverage the Fabral knowledgebase in construction, to assist with the steel fabrication and roll-formed products utilized to support solar modules."

This new division will streamline the integration of solar technology within a variety of structures that Fabral Solar can service, crossing commercial, residential, and agricultural markets, as well as new business sectors.

"Fabral Solar is designed to be a one-stop shop for all solar racking needs, utilizing our unmatched resources from Fabral and Flack Global Metals," Cummings added. To spearhead and boost this initiative from the onset, Fabral will begin to install solar panels on its existing buildings and properties.

Industry Veterans Lead the Charge 

Leading this effort are steel veterans John Cummings and Larkin Canington, who are backed by Fabral CEO Dennis Merino, Vice President Bruce Green, and the extended team. Cummings and Canington were both Bethlehem Steel executives until the company was sold in 2003, before forming Baltimore Steel Partners, Inc., which was the genesis of their foray into solar project installation. 

"We can speak both languages very well," says co-founder Larkin Canington.

"Fabral Solar positions us at the forefront of a rapidly expanding industry, broadening our market reach, strengthening partnerships in renewable energy, and reinforcing our commitment to sustainability. This addition not only provides new opportunities for growth but also allows our existing customers to stay ahead of the curve in energy-efficient construction as we simplify solar integration and make renewable energy more accessible," said Fabral Vice President Bruce Green.  

The Fabral Solar Edge 

Fabral Solar is built on innovation and adaptability. As the solar industry expands, installers and developers require durable, efficient, and easy-to-install structural solutions. By leveraging Fabral's expertise in structural systems, it fills a critical gap—providing high-quality mounting infrastructure that enhances solar panel performance while integrating seamlessly with various building designs.

Fabral Solar is equipped to handle a multitude of projects including:

• Working directly with Engineering Procurement and Construction (EPC) contractors and solar racking manufacturers to establish a supply chain for projects.
• Offering specific Fabral steel products to fit a solar project's design and installation needs.
• Providing assembled kits and parts for buildings, carports, canopies, and solar farms.

Fabral Metal Wall and Roof Systems | www.fabral.com

Perovskite solar cells could last ten times longer thanks to new research led by the University of Surrey, which suggests alumina (Al₂O₃) nanoparticles significantly enhance the lifespan and stability of these high-efficiency energy devices. 

While perovskite solar cells offer a cost-effective and lightweight alternative to traditional silicon-based technology, their commercial potential has been limited due to a flaw in their structure – primarily caused by iodine leakage. Over time, this escape of iodine can lead to material degradation, reducing performance and durability. 

Working in collaboration with the National Physical Laboratory and the University of Sheffield, scientists have now discovered a way to trap iodine by embedding tiny particles of Al₂O₃ – aluminium oxide – within the cell, holding promise for longer-lasting and more affordable next-generation solar panels. 

Dr Hashini Perera, postgraduate research student and lead author of the study from the Advanced Technology Institute at the University of Surrey, said: 

"It's incredibly exciting to see our approach make such an impact. A decade ago, the idea of perovskite solar cells lasting this long under real-world conditions seemed out of reach. With these improvements, we’re breaking new ground in stability and performance, bringing perovskite technology closer to becoming a mainstream energy solution." 

The study, published in EES Solar, tested the modified solar cells under extreme heat and humidity to replicate real-world conditions. Results showed that solar cells with embedded Al₂O₃ nanoparticles maintained high performance for more than two months (1,530 hours) – a tenfold improvement compared to just 160 hours without the alumina-enhanced modifications. 

Further analysis revealed that the Al₂O₃ nanoparticles contributed to a more uniform perovskite structure, reducing defects and improving electrical conductivity; it also formed a protective 2D perovskite layer, which acts as an additional barrier against moisture degradation. 

Dr Imalka Jayawardena, from Surrey's Advanced Technology Institute, said: 

"By addressing these common challenges we see with perovskite solar technology, our research blows the doors wide open for cheaper, more efficient and more widely accessible solar power. What we’ve achieved here is a critical step toward developing high-performance solar cells that can withstand real-world conditions – bringing us closer to their commercial use at a global scale.” 

Professor Ravi Silva, Director of the Advanced Technology Insitute and interim Director at the Surrey Institute for Sustainability, added: 

“With the deadline for Net-Zero targets fast approaching, expanding access to renewable energy solutions is more critical than ever if we’re to successfully reduce our reliance on fossil fuels. Breakthroughs like this will play a vital role in meeting global energy demands while supporting our transition to a sustainable future.  

“Recent analysis by the Confederation of British Industry also highlights that training in the renewable energy sector not only improves career prospects but can lead to wages above the national average, reinforcing the economic and environmental benefits of investing in clean energy." 

University of Surrey | https://www.surrey.ac.uk/

Taylor-Wharton, a subsidiary of Air Water America Inc., a global leader in cryogenic equipment, has partnered with GenH2, a pioneer in liquid hydrogen technology, to introduce an innovative zero-loss hydrogen storage solution that will redefine the way liquid hydrogen is stored, transferred and dispensed.  

Under this partnership, Taylor-Wharton will incorporate GenH2’s ground-breaking Controlled Storage technology into its industry-leading Liquid Hydrogen (LH2) bulk storage tanks.  Unlike conventional systems that suffer from hydrogen losses due to boil-off during transfill, storage, and dispensing operations, this game-changing advancement prevents losses before they occur, paving the way for hydrogen as a truly viable alternative to fossil fuels.

This breakthrough arises at a critical juncture when the global demand for clean and sustainable energy solutions is more urgent than ever. Hydrogen as a fuel source is set for significant growth but has not been able to achieve widespread adoption due largely to the issue of hydrogen loss from boil-off.  Until now, typical refueling operations have experienced substantial losses, often ranging from 20%-40%. GenH2’s Controlled Storage, born out of the NASA space program, utilizes cryogenic refrigeration and heat removal to eliminate those losses, raising the bar for hydrogen refueling. 

Combined with Taylor Wharton’s state-of-the-art vacuum-insulated bulk storage solutions, the Controlled Storage system offers unmatched performance and is a “must-have” for fueling station operators.

“We are excited to introduce a solution that addresses one of the most pressing challenges in the hydrogen industry,” said Eric Rottier, Chairman & CEO of Taylor-Wharton. “Our joint solution will revolutionize liquid hydrogen storage and will provide our customers with the most cutting-edge equipment for hydrogen storage and fueling.”

“We are thrilled to partner with Taylor-Wharton, and we share their commitment to innovation and market leadership,” said Greg Gosnell, CEO of GenH2. “Hydrogen has immense potential, but you can’t lose 20%-40% of your product and expect to be cost competitive. We expect our refrigerated liquid hydrogen storage technology to become the new standard for renewable energy systems and advance clean energy on a global scale.”

Air Water America I www.awi.co.jp/english/

Taylor-Wharton | www.twcryo.com

GenH2 | www.genh2hydrogen.com

Anza’s inaugural quarterly Energy Storage Pricing Insights Report provides an overview of median list-price trends for battery energy storage systems based on recent data available on the Anza platform. We focus on two primary project archetypes: a 40 MW distributed generation (DG) project and a 200 MW utility-scale project, both sized at a 4-hour duration. 

Please note: 

● All figures presented are Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) prices, including U.S. Section 301 tariffs and shipping. 

● The figures include data through January 31, 2025, and therefore do not currently include the 10% Chinese tariff that went into effect on February 4, 2025. We are actively collecting details from manufacturers about how pricing will change. Working with Anza gives you more market visibility during times of uncertainty. 

● AC systems include the battery block, Power Conversion System (PCS), and Energy Management System (EMS). 

● DC systems include only the battery block. 

Key Market Factors Affecting Current Energy Storage Prices 

1. Lithium Carbonate Index Prices are Leveling ○ After a steady increase from August through mid-November 2024, the Lithium Carbonate Index (LCO) index (CNY/mt) leveled out slightly this quarter, entering February at 77,500. While energy storage system prices are still subject to macro swings, this minor stabilization in lithium carbonate pricing has helped curb steep cost fluctuations in battery cell pricing. 

2. More Suppliers, More Pricing Pressure ○ We are seeing more manufacturers enter the storage market than ever before. This increase in competition drives greater pricing pressure overall, helping push list prices down from prior quarters—particularly in the DG-scale segment. 

3. Tariffs Are a Major Focus ○ Tariff-related issues continue to shape pricing strategies. While pricing decreased slightly from August 2024 through January 31, 2025, the imposition of Trump’s 10% universal tariff on Chinese imports is expected to significantly impact moving forward, with suppliers adjusting their quotes or deal structures accordingly. Additionally, the ITC’s preliminary affirmative determination on January 31, 2025, that Chinese active anode material will likely harm the U.S. industry adds further complexity to the tariff landscape. 

4. Rise of Commercial AC and DC-Integrated OEM “Wraps” ○ There has been a notable rise in AC-integrated or “all-in-one” systems offered by system integrators and battery OEMs. This trend and the emergence of DC-integrated OEM wraps contribute to pricing variability and occasional margin compression in integration services. 

5. DG vs. Utility Scale Trend ○ The continued expansion of supplier options and volume discounts for larger projects pull pricing downward for utility-scale projects. At the same time, increased competition among smaller project suppliers is closing the gap between DG and utility-scale prices. 

DG-Scale 40 MW, 4-Hour System 

For our analysis of a 40 MW, 4-hour distributed generation (DG) system, the median list prices have shown small changes since late August. Specifically, median AC pricing has decreased by approximately $4/kWh (about 3.0%), while median DC pricing has declined by roughly $3/kWh (around 2.9%). 

Utility-Scale (200 MW, 4-Hour System) 

In the case of a 200 MW, 4-hour utility-scale project, median pricing hasn’t similarly shifted since late August. Here, median AC pricing has dropped by about $1/kWh (approximately 0.8%), and median DC pricing has fallen by roughly $4/kWh (around 3.7%). 

Conclusion 

The data provided in our Q1 report provides an important benchmark as we reach what may be a turning point in energy storage pricing dynamics. At the macro-level, we are still in an overcapacity world across the entire battery value chain. However, while most storage suppliers have stayed put on their pricing in recent weeks (as reflected in our data through the end of January 2025), this is almost certainly about to change. The China-wide tariffs that went into effect at the beginning of February, along with the U.S. ITC’s affirmative determination of harm from Chinese imports of anode materials on January 31, have made establishing firm energy storage system pricing highly challenging in the early days of February as suppliers adjust to the new market developments. 

The pricing data presented in this report is just a fraction of the extensive information available on the Anza platform. Our clients can access real-time, direct-from-supplier prices from 20 manufacturers, detailed product configurations, and equipment counts that aid development designs and financial modeling. In addition to providing negotiated and transaction pricing, our advisory services support the production of approved vendor lists, optimized shortlists, and best-and-final offerings, including contract negotiations. 

Anza Renewables | https://www.anzarenewables.com/