Energy Department announces $325M for batteries that can store clean electricity longer in Georgia, other states

An employee works at a battery energy storage facility in Saginaw, Texas, April 25, 2023, that is owned and operated by Eolian L.P. The U.S. Department of Energy on Friday, Sept. 22, announced a $325 million investment in long-duration battery storage projects in Georgia and other states. (AP Photo/Sam Hodde, File)

The Energy Department is announcing a $325 million investment in new battery types that can help turn solar and wind energy into 24-hour power, it said Friday morning.

The funds will be distributed among 15 projects in 17 states — including Georgia — and the Red Lake Nation, a Native American tribe based in Minnesota.

Batteries are increasingly being used to store surplus renewable energy so that it can be used later, during times when there is no sunlight or wind. The department says the projects will protect more communities from blackouts and make energy more reliable and affordable.