100 MW battery storage project will store excess energy and support renewable integration
AULT, Colo., – Local officials joined leaders from NextEra Energy Resources, LLC and Platte River Power Authority to break ground on Weld Energy Center, Platte River’s first large-scale battery energy storage project.
The 100-megawatt (MW) battery energy storage facility in Weld County will be owned and operated by Weld Energy Center LLC, a subsidiary of NextEra Energy Resources, America’s largest energy infrastructure developer and builder.
Why it matters:
Weld Energy Center represents a significant investment in Colorado’s energy infrastructure, strengthening grid reliability by safely storing excess energy and delivering it when demand is highest. The project will help meet growing energy demand while providing reliable, cost-effective energy solutions when electricity is needed most.
Battery energy storage is also one of the fastest and lowest cost ways to add capacity to the electric grid, helping meet peak electricity demand without the need for new conventional generation resources.
When completed, the project will add flexibility to the grid by balancing supply and demand during extreme weather and peak usage, supporting reliable electricity for homes, businesses and essential services. Located near a solar facility serving Platte River and connected to its newest substation, the energy storage project will enhance the existing solar site while supporting greater energy integration, improving grid performance and providing a cost-effective solution to meet the region’s growing energy needs.
By the numbers:
- 100 MW of battery energy storage capacity
- $141 million invested locally
- More than $6.8 million in projected tax revenue over 20 years
- More than 200 construction jobs created
Community impact:
Tax revenue from the project will support schools, public safety and infrastructure improvements across Weld County. This impact is reinforced through the use of local contractors and suppliers during construction, supporting regional economic growth and local workforce development. Additionally, the land for the project is leased from the state of Colorado with 95% of all revenue going toward Colorado Public Schools.
From Platte River General Manager and CEO Jason Frisbie: “This project represents the kind of forward-thinking approach that has historically defined Platte River. As we approach the retirement of our flagship coal unit in 2029, projects like this are essential to maintaining reliability and advancing our clean energy transition.”
From NextEra Energy Resources Vice President Dexter Liu: “Weld Energy Center represents the next generation of energy infrastructure in Colorado. As electricity demand continues to grow, battery energy storage is playing an increasingly important role in maintaining reliability and supporting economic growth. We are proud to work with Platte River Power Authority, Weld County and the local community on this significant investment, which will strengthen the electric grid, support local jobs and deliver long-term, cost-effective energy solutions for Colorado families and businesses.”
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NextEra Energy Resources, LLC
NextEra Energy Resources, LLC, together with its affiliated entities, (“NextEra Energy Resources”) is America’s largest energy infrastructure developer and builder. The company develops, builds and operates long-term contracted power generation, battery storage and electric and gas transmission. NextEra Energy Resources also delivers integrated electric, gas supply and technology solutions to utilities load-serving entities and businesses across the United States. As of year-end 2025, the company had approximately 37,505 megawatts of net generating capacity in operation. NextEra Energy Resources is a subsidiary of Juno Beach, Florida-based NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE: NEE). For more information, visit www.NextEraEnergyResources.com
Platte River Power Authority
Platte River Power Authority (Platte River) is a not-for-profit, community-owned public power generation and transmission utility that provides safe, reliable, environmentally responsible and financially sustainable energy and services to Estes Park, Fort Collins, Longmont and Loveland, Colorado, for delivery to their distribution utility customers. In addition to providing a public health and safety service to the owner communities, Platte River is working toward a 100% noncarbon energy future through a Resource Diversification Policy approved by its board of directors in 2018. For more information, visit prpa.org.