Google’s new 1.9GW clean energy deal includes massive 100-hour battery

On Tuesday, Google revealed its plans to establish a data center in Minnesota, supported by an impressive 1.9 gigawatts of renewable energy. This facility will feature a state-of-the-art 300-megawatt battery developed by the innovative startup Form Energy. Located in Pine Island, approximately an hour southeast of Minneapolis, this data center marks Google's inaugural project in the state. In partnership with Xcel Energy, Google aims to develop 1.4 gigawatts of wind energy alongside 200 megawatts of solar power, all of which will energize Form's advanced battery. Notably, this battery is engineered to supply power for an astonishing 100 hours, making it the largest of its kind globally with a capacity of 30 gigawatt-hours. This technology will enable the data center to operate sustainably for extended durations, ensuring a consistent power supply even during the night or periods of low generation from renewable sources. Unlike conventional grid-scale lithium-ion batteries, Form Energy's batteries utilize a unique process involving the rusting and deoxidizing of iron to store energy. As air flows over iron pebbles within the battery, it generates electricity through rusting. To recharge, an electric current reverses the rusting process, converting it back to metallic iron and releasing oxygen. While these iron-air batteries are heavier and less efficient compared to lithium-ion counterparts—typically returning only 50% to 70% of the energy used in charging versus over 90% for lithium-ion—their affordability is a significant advantage. Form Energy claims their technology will allow for storage at a remarkably low cost of $20 per kilowatt-hour, making it three times cheaper than lithium-ion solutions. Additionally, the project introduces a novel utility fee structure in Minnesota designed to facilitate the adoption of clean technologies while complying with regulatory standards that prioritize cost-efficiency. Google initially pioneered this concept in Nevada, in collaboration with geothermal startup Fervo, to support projects that regulators might deem risky, ensuring that customers are not adversely impacted. Currently, Form Energy is installing its first battery system in Minnesota with Great River Energy, which will provide 150 megawatt-hours over 100 hours, contributing a peak output of 1.5 megawatts to the grid. With a factory in West Virginia and $1.4 billion raised to date, Form Energy is positioning itself at the forefront of the clean energy revolution.