Google made a significant announcement on Tuesday regarding the construction of a new data center in Minnesota. This data center will be supported by 1.9 gigawatts of clean power, with a key component being a massive 300-megawatt battery provided by startup Form Energy.
Situated in Pine Island, just an hour southeast of Minneapolis, this will be Google’s first data center in Minnesota. The tech giant has partnered with Xcel Energy to develop 1.4 gigawatts of wind power and 200 megawatts of solar power. These renewable energy sources will supply Form’s innovative battery, which has the capacity to deliver its rated power for an impressive 100 hours. With a storage capacity of 30 gigawatt-hours, it will be the largest battery globally, enabling the data center to operate on clean energy for extended periods.
Form Energy’s batteries differ from traditional grid-scale batteries as they utilize iron-air technology. By allowing iron to rust and deoxidize within the battery, electricity is generated when oxygen interacts with the iron. Although these batteries may not be as efficient as lithium-ion alternatives, they offer significant cost advantages. Form Energy estimates that their technology will ultimately reduce storage costs to just $20 per kilowatt-hour, making it three times cheaper than lithium-ion batteries.
In addition to introducing cutting-edge battery technology, this project introduces a unique utility fee structure in Minnesota. Known as the “clean transition tariff” or the “clean energy accelerator charge,” this arrangement enables utilities to adopt innovative technologies without conflicting with regulatory requirements. By paying a premium, Google ensures that regular ratepayers are not burdened by the costs associated with these clean energy initiatives.
While solar and wind power are well-established, Form Energy’s iron-air batteries represent a newer and promising technology. The startup is currently deploying its first battery in Minnesota in partnership with Great River Energy, capable of storing 150 megawatt-hours for 100 hours. This installation will contribute 1.5 megawatts to the grid at peak times.
Form Energy manufactures its batteries at a facility in West Virginia and has secured $1.4 billion in funding to date. This partnership between Google, Xcel Energy, and Form Energy highlights the ongoing commitment to sustainable and cost-effective energy solutions in the technology sector.
