Tesla Repurposes Retired Steam Plant for Major Megapack Project in California
Tesla continues to expand its energy storage footprint with an innovative new Megapack project in California. The company has breathed new life into a retired steam plant, transforming it into a state-of-the-art energy storage facility.
The spotlight is on the Arevon Condor Energy Storage Project located in Grand Terrace, San Bernardino County, California. Highlighted recently on Tesla’s Megapack account on X, the project repurposes the site of the Highgrove Steam Plant, which operated from 1952 until its retirement in 2001.
One of the Largest Battery Sites in the US
The Condor project now boasts 200 MW/800 MWh of Tesla’s advanced Megapack storage systems, making it one of the largest battery sites in the United States. The transformation of this former industrial site underscores Tesla’s commitment to enhancing grid stability and supporting regional energy needs.
Constructed with Sustainability in Mind
Arevon, the key player behind the project, secured additional financing earlier this year and aimed to commence operations in the second quarter. A 15-year contract with Southern California Edison, the primary utility provider in the area, ensures long-term viability for the Condor project.
“The historical significance of this site in supporting regional energy needs makes it an ideal location for the Condor project,” said Tim Hemig, Senior Vice President in Tenaska’s Development Group. “This project is a testament to California’s ongoing transition toward a sustainable and reliable energy future.”
A Timeline of Progress
Construction for the Condor Energy Storage Project began in February of last year, with Arevon initially estimating a construction period of about a year. This site adds to Arevon and Tesla’s collaborative efforts, which include a 300 MW/1.2 GWh project in Kern County, California.
Tesla’s Expanding Megafactory Operations
Tesla manufactures these groundbreaking Megapack systems at its “Megafactory” in Lathrop, California, where production has been ramped up considerably over the last couple of years. Additionally, Tesla has initiated the construction of another Megafactory in Shanghai, China. Both facilities are projected to produce up to 10,000 Megapack units annually once they reach full production capacity.
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William Kouch, Editor of Automotive.fyi
10 Comments
Wow, it’s amazing how Tesla is turnin old steam plants to new energy sites! Go green energy!
Why dont they just build new plants insted. i dont see the point in using old stuff. Waste of money imo.
Hey did you kno that these megpacker things can store energy for days! Pretty cool tech if u ask me.
Oh great, more batteries. Like that’s going to solve all our problems. *eyeroll*
They should put one of these in my backyard, maybe I can finally charge my phone without it dying every 2 hours lol
Wow, this is so cool!! Tesla found a way to use old place and make it good again. Way to go Tesla!!!
Why they wasting so much money on battery? it’s not gonna work like they say. These projects always fail!!
Did know that this place was so old! 1952, wow!! It’s interesting how they make new things out of the old.
Oh great, another Tesla project. Like we really need more of those batteries lying around. 🤦♂️
Let me guess, next step is probably building a Gigafactory on the moon! 😂