A new electricity startup company in Austin is making waves in the industry by providing Texans with reliable power through innovative battery technology. Base Power, founded by Zach Dell, aims to enhance grid reliability one battery at a time. Dell, a tech investor turned CEO, saw an opportunity to address Texas’ grid concerns by introducing on-site battery storage solutions for customers.
Powering Up with Base Power
Base Power’s approach involves installing batteries that offer storage capacity for customers, allowing them to store energy during off-peak hours and use it during times of heightened demand. The COO and co-founder, Justin Lopas, explained that the grid in Texas experiences peak loads during periods of increased energy consumption, such as hot summer days when residents are trying to stay cool. By utilizing batteries to store and discharge energy, Base Power’s system helps make the grid more efficient.
The Base Power battery system is constructed using lithium iron phosphate and has the capacity to hold 20 kilowatt-hours of energy. These batteries are designed to withstand localized outages caused by factors like downed trees or damaged wires. When the grid is operational, the batteries support the power supply. However, in the event of a grid failure, the batteries kick in to provide electricity to the connected home, ensuring a reliable power source.
Building Infrastructure for Reliability
Reliability is a top priority for Base Power, with Dell emphasizing the importance of ensuring customers have access to uninterrupted power. While a single battery may not sustain a customer through an extended outage like the one experienced during Winter Storm Uri in 2021, Base Power is working on integrating batteries with solar systems and portable generators to provide continuous coverage during prolonged outages.
Base Power is expanding its reach beyond Austin, with plans to move into the Dallas-Fort Worth region and eventually into the greater Houston area. The company is focused on making its products accessible to a wide range of residents, including those from diverse socio-economic backgrounds. By collaborating with the public and private sectors, Base Power aims to ensure that its solutions are available to all Texans who can benefit from reliable energy sources.
Advocating for Grid Reliability
As Texas continues to experience growth and energy demands increase, the need for reliable power sources becomes more critical. Base Power is actively engaging with lawmakers to advocate for grid reliability and promote the importance of innovative solutions in the energy sector. Dell emphasized the company’s commitment to providing affordable and dependable power to its customers, highlighting the competitive and free market environment in Texas as conducive to developing cutting-edge solutions.
In preparation for the upcoming legislative session, Base Power is gearing up to participate in discussions and advocate for policies that support grid reliability. Dell stressed the importance of being part of the solution and contributing to the ongoing progress in the energy industry. With a focus on technological advancements and customer needs, Base Power aims to play a significant role in shaping the future of energy in Texas.
Overall, Base Power’s innovative approach to grid reliability through on-site battery storage is not only transforming the energy landscape in Texas but also setting a precedent for sustainable and efficient power solutions in the industry. With a commitment to providing affordable and reliable power to its customers, Base Power is poised to make a lasting impact on the energy sector in Texas and beyond.