Duke Energy Florida has started a pilot program in the Hunter’s Creek neighborhood of Orlando to study the use of battery energy storage systems (BESS) in homes. More than 75 single-family households are participating in the project, which is expected to last for 10 years.
The initiative aims to evaluate how residential battery systems can help manage energy demand and support the electric grid during periods of high usage. The installed Generac battery systems act as both backup power sources and tools for managing household energy use. Normally, these batteries stay idle or charge during times when electricity demand is low. If there is a power outage, they automatically supply backup power to the home.
During days with high electricity demand, Duke Energy can instruct all participating batteries to discharge stored energy over one to three hours. This process helps reduce stress on the grid. These events are scheduled based on anticipated system needs throughout the duration of the pilot.
“This pilot helps us better understand how home battery systems can support both our customers and the electric system during times of high demand,” said Melissa Seixas, president, Duke Energy Florida. “By learning from this project, we can explore practical ways to use energy more efficiently while continuing to provide reliable service to the communities we serve.”
Data collected from this program will inform Duke Energy about when and how residential batteries are most effective at reducing overall energy consumption and peak grid demand. The company plans to use findings from this 10-year evaluation for further research into strategies that could improve efficiency.
Homeowners taking part in the program do not need to adjust their regular electricity usage habits, and their utility bills remain unchanged by participation. When used, stored battery power supplies homes at no additional cost compared with standard grid electricity.
The batteries also offer benefits during service interruptions such as those caused by hurricanes; participating homeowners will have access to stored energy for essential areas until normal service resumes.
Duke Energy Florida serves two million customers across a 13,000-square-mile area in Florida and operates 12,500 megawatts of capacity. Its parent company, Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), is based in Charlotte, North Carolina and provides electric services to 8.6 million customers across six states as well as natural gas services in five states.
More information about Duke Energy’s operations and its efforts toward modernizing its infrastructure can be found at duke-energy.com and through its social media channels including X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and illumination.
For inquiries regarding this pilot or other matters related to Duke Energy Florida, contact Laitin Sterling at 800-559-3853.
