The California Energy Commission (CEC) has approved the 400 MW Potentia-Viridi Battery Energy Storage System in Alameda County through its expedited Opt-In Certification program. The project will add 3,200 MWh of energy storage capacity to California’s power grid.
Levy Alameda, a subsidiary of Clearway Energy Group, will develop and operate the facility in eastern Alameda County. The battery system will store excess electricity during periods of high renewable generation and discharge power during periods of peak demand.
Construction is expected to begin in May 2027 and continue for approximately 18 months. The project is expected to employ an average of 97 construction workers per month, with peak workforce levels reaching 127 workers. Once operational, the facility will support 18 full-time positions over its projected 35-year lifespan.
The approval marks the third major clean energy project approved through California’s Opt-In Certification program during the past year. Together, the three projects represent approximately 3,300 MW of new clean energy and energy storage capacity.
The developer has also signed community benefits agreements valued at $925,000 with local nonprofit organizations. The agreements could provide up to $1.1 million in community support over a 20-year period.
The project forms part of California’s broader effort to expand utility-scale battery storage capacity. State officials continue to rely on large battery systems to improve grid reliability and support growing renewable energy generation.