Google adds 1,070 megawatts to Voltus virtual power deal
The arrangement pays homes and businesses to reduce electricity use when the PJM grid is strained.
Google has agreed to finance another 1,070 megawatts of capacity through Voltus, expanding a virtual power arrangement serving its operations on the PJM grid, the companies said. The additional commitment follows an agreement for 100 megawatts in June.
Instead of running turbines, Voltus coordinates electricity demand reductions at participating households and businesses. When pressure on the grid rises, it asks those sites to lower consumption using equipment such as smart thermostats and batteries, or by adjusting industrial processes.
Google's payments fund the capacity through Voltus's Bring Your Own Capacity program. Participants receive direct payments and savings on their bills. The PJM network serves 67 million customers in the District of Columbia and 13 states.
Ellen Zuckerman, who heads energy market development for the Americas at Google, said the arrangement would contribute to regional grid reliability and provide money to communities.
Google also signed a nuclear power agreement with Constellation on 6 October, covering 890MW over 20 years. Separately, Voltus raised US$225 million in Series D funding on 8 October; its business links resources including batteries, electric vehicles and on-site generation with electricity markets.
