Energy Vault Inc., a leader in sustainable energy storage solutions, has finalized a $28 million loan to fund the development of the Calistoga Resiliency Center in Northern California. This strategic initiative aims to improve the region’s energy reliability and climate resilience by deploying a long-duration energy storage system capable of operating independently during emergencies.
Financing Supports Clean Energy Infrastructure
The newly secured funding will directly support the construction of the Calistoga Resiliency Center, an innovative facility designed to store and deliver renewable energy. The loan was arranged through a private financing agreement with a consortium of green energy lenders, reflecting growing investor confidence in California’s clean energy transition.
Project to Deliver 8.5 MW and 293 MWh of Storage
Once operational, the Calistoga Resiliency Center will deliver up to 8.5 megawatts of peak power and a total storage capacity of 293 megawatt-hours over a continuous 48-hour period. This capacity enables the facility to provide uninterrupted power without refueling, even during prolonged outages or wildfires.
Designed for Off-Grid Operation During Emergencies
One of the most compelling features of the facility is its ability to operate off-grid, making it a critical resource during natural disasters. Located in Napa County’s wildfire-prone region, the Calistoga Resiliency Center is expected to safeguard residents and critical infrastructure from power disruptions, particularly during Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS).
Support for California’s Clean Energy Goals
The project aligns with California’s broader climate strategy, including its goals of reaching 100% clean electricity by 2045. By deploying a long-duration storage system, Energy Vault is helping the state store excess renewable energy generated by solar and wind, and dispatch it when grid demand spikes or supply is interrupted.
Innovative Gravity-Based Energy Storage System
The Calistoga facility will use Energy Vault’s proprietary gravity-based energy storage technology, which lifts and lowers heavy blocks to store and release energy. This design reduces reliance on lithium-ion batteries and enables longer, safer, and more cost-effective storage without chemical degradation over time.
Project to Enhance Local Grid Resilience
Beyond emergency preparedness, the project is also expected to stabilize the local grid in Napa Valley, especially during peak demand periods in the summer. The system can shift energy use away from vulnerable transmission lines and alleviate stress on the power grid during extreme heat or high wildfire risk.
Collaborations with Utilities and Local Authorities
Energy Vault is working closely with local utilities and municipal governments to integrate the Calistoga Resiliency Center into the broader energy network. These partnerships will ensure the facility operates in tandem with existing infrastructure and can be rapidly deployed in emergency scenarios.
Jobs and Economic Benefits for the Region
The project will also provide economic benefits to the Calistoga community, including the creation of construction and engineering jobs, long-term maintenance roles, and increased demand for local services. Officials expect the project to generate dozens of local jobs during its development phase.
Environmental Impact and Sustainability
Unlike diesel-powered backup generators, the Calistoga Resiliency Center will provide clean, emissions-free backup power, significantly reducing the environmental impact of emergency energy systems. The facility will serve as a model for climate-adaptive infrastructure in high-risk regions across California.
Loan Closes Amid Growing Demand for Resilient Energy
The $28 million loan closes at a time of growing demand for climate-resilient energy solutions in California and beyond. As wildfires, droughts, and extreme heat events become more frequent, public and private stakeholders are investing in reliable, low-carbon infrastructure.
Recognition from Energy Policy Leaders
California energy officials have lauded the project as a forward-thinking response to the state’s energy and climate challenges. “This type of long-duration storage is critical to our future grid reliability and public safety,” said a spokesperson from the California Energy Commission.
Model for Future Microgrid and Storage Deployments
Energy Vault’s Calistoga project may serve as a blueprint for future microgrid and long-duration storage systems throughout the state. Policymakers and energy developers are closely watching its progress as they assess opportunities to scale similar infrastructure in vulnerable communities.
Advancing California’s Wildfire Resilience Strategy
With wildfires remaining a persistent threat, the Calistoga Resiliency Center advances California’s efforts to protect power access during emergencies. It provides a sustainable solution that enhances energy equity and reduces dependence on fossil fuel-based backup power.
Conclusion: A Leap Toward Resilient, Renewable Power
Energy Vault’s $28 million financing marks a significant milestone in California’s clean energy journey. The Calistoga Resiliency Center exemplifies how innovative technology, private investment, and public collaboration can come together to build a safer, more resilient, and sustainable future for communities at the frontlines of climate change.
