Abundance Energy, sonnen, and Energywell have joined forces to introduce a groundbreaking virtual power plant (VPP) initiative in Texas. This collaboration aims to provide smarter and more resilient energy solutions to homes in the state by integrating home batteries, solar power, and advanced energy software.
Through the installation of sonnenConnect home batteries by Abundance Energy, customers will become part of a network of connected homes that can support the grid by storing and sharing power when needed. This not only leads to lower electricity bills but also improves reliability during extreme weather events and contributes to a cleaner energy mix overall.
Covering all of ERCOT, with a primary focus on the greater Dallas-Fort Worth and Houston areas, the VPP will equip each home with two 4.8kW/20kWh sonnenCore+20 battery units. The current customer base enrolled in the VPP amounts to 60 MWh, with ongoing growth expected monthly. By the end of 2026, the VPP is projected to surpass Tesla as the largest virtual power plant in Texas.
The system operates by continuously monitoring and managing the batteries using Energywell’s Proton platform and sonnen’s smart VPP technology. This setup allows for the optimization of solar generation, customer energy consumption, and real-time electricity pricing, enabling the batteries to charge or discharge as needed. As a result, these batteries transform into mini power plants that can respond to grid demands in real-time.
When thousands of batteries work together, they form a VPP that alleviates strain on the grid, particularly during peak demand periods or power outages. Unlike traditional power plants, VPPs rely on clean, stored electricity from homes and businesses, helping to reduce carbon emissions while ensuring grid stability.
Thomas Mandry, CEO of Abundance Energy, emphasized, “Our mission is to empower homeowners with smarter, more sustainable energy solutions. This partnership delivers a new kind of VPP model that benefits customers and strengthens the Texas grid.” Blake Richetta, CEO of sonnen, added, “With Abundance Energy and Energywell, we’re showing how everyday homeowners can become part of the solution to Texas’ energy challenges.”
In a state like Texas, prone to grid reliability issues, especially during extreme weather conditions, a flexible, customer-powered energy system like this VPP enhances home resilience and gives customers greater control over their energy supply.
For individuals residing in disaster-prone areas seeking to bolster their home’s resilience to power outages, the installation of solar panels and a battery storage system is recommended. To find a reputable solar installer near you at competitive pricing, consider using EnergySage, a free service that facilitates the transition to solar energy. With hundreds of pre-vetted solar installers competing for your business, EnergySage ensures high-quality solutions and savings of 20-30% compared to independent installations.
By leveraging personalized solar quotes available for comparison online and access to unbiased Energy Advisers, EnergySage streamlines the process of going solar. To get started, visit EnergySage using the trusted affiliate link provided.
