Customer Success Stories | Power Factors

Power Factors' EMS manages one of the world’s largest standalone BESS installations in Arizona

Written by Power Factors | Feb 21, 2025 2:03:19 PM

Arizona's high temperatures and variable renewable energy generation make it a prime location for large-scale battery storage. It is here that one of the largest standalone battery energy storage systems (BESS) in the world is taking shape.  

With a capacity of 300MW/1200MWh, this project will support the state’s push to meet clean energy goals by stabilizing the grid, reducing dependence on fossil fuel power plants, and delivering power to the local grid more efficiently, with less energy loss.  

Once fully operational, the 4-hour BESS system will be capable of supplying electricity to approximately 244,000 homes. 

To manage the scale and complexity of this project, a leading system integrator partnered with Power Factors. By deploying Power Factors’ Local Energy Management System (EMS) and Local SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) solution, the operator gains: 

  • Precise control over energy dispatch 

  • Improved system reliability 

  • Compliance with market and grid regulations 

Power Factors' EMS was chosen for its fully integrated approach, combining hardware, software, and expert services to provide advanced control and optimization of battery operations. This system intelligently manages charge/discharge cycles, reducing battery wear while maximizing revenue opportunities in energy markets.  

Commissioning a project of this scale requires coordination across multiple stakeholders, including utilities and regulatory bodies. Throughout this phase, Power Factors’ delivery team works closely with engineers and grid operators to ensure seamless integration with existing infrastructure. 

Power Factors offers both Local EMS and Local SCADA as part of the Unity renewable energy management suite, delivering a fully integrated solution for real-time control and optimization. While the SCADA system provides robust data acquisition, monitoring, and remote control, the EMS transforms this data into intelligent, automated decisions on energy dispatch, frequency regulation, and market participation. Together, they: 

  • Provide a clear view of BESS performance 

  • Improve operational efficiency 

  • Simplify compliance with changing grid requirements 

This end-to-end approach helps ensure smooth operations, enabling the BESS to maintain peak performance today while preparing the site for future energy demands and market changes. 

As Arizona moves toward a more sustainable energy future, large-scale battery storage projects like this play a significant role in enabling greater use of renewable energy and reducing dependence on carbon-intensive power plants, ultimately lowering emissions and supporting a cleaner energy mix. 

Want to see how Power Factors helps optimize large-scale battery storage? Book a demo.