Rocky Mountain Power and Torus partner to bolster energy resilience in Utah

In a significant move to enhance grid reliability and meet the state’s growing energy demands, Rocky Mountain Power and Torus have entered into a strategic partnership, formalized through a memorandum of understanding (MOU). This collaboration aims to explore 70 megawatts of demand response capacity using Torus’s advanced Nova technology. The initiative is aligned with Operation Gigawatt, Utah’s ambitious goal to double the state’s power production over the next decade.

The partnership, unveiled during Utah Tech Week, was praised by Governor Spencer Cox as a benchmark of innovation in energy solutions. “This energy storage partnership is a great example of Utah’s leadership in innovative energy solutions,” Governor Cox remarked. “As we double our power production capacity, we ensure Utah remains a net energy exporter while setting the stage for economic growth.”

What Makes This Partnership a Game-Changer for Energy Storage?

At the core of this partnership is Torus, a South Salt Lake-based leader in energy storage and management. Known for its development of “mini power plants,” Torus offers full-stack solutions for energy generation, security, and storage. Its flagship technologies, Nova Spin and Nova Pulse, are designed to provide real-time demand response capabilities with twice the lifespan of traditional battery systems.

These technologies will be deployed across multiple sites under Rocky Mountain Power’s industry-leading Wattsmart Battery program. By integrating cutting-edge energy storage solutions, the program aims to lower energy costs while optimizing grid infrastructure. The additional 70 megawatts of flexible capacity is expected to supply energy to approximately 20,000 homes during demand response events, significantly enhancing grid resilience.

“This collaboration highlights our dedication to adopting innovative technologies and ensuring our infrastructure evolves to meet future challenges,” said Dick Garlish, President of Rocky Mountain Power.

Why Is Demand Response Vital for Utah’s Energy Future?

As Utah continues to attract large-scale investments from data centers, manufacturing plants, and technology companies, the need for reliable and cost-effective energy solutions becomes critical. Demand response, a system where energy consumption is adjusted during peak periods to balance grid demand, plays a vital role in ensuring uninterrupted power supply.

“Working with Rocky Mountain Power at this scale demonstrates the growing recognition of demand response as a crucial tool for modern utilities,” noted Nate Walkingshaw, CEO of Torus. “Our technology not only improves grid resilience but also aligns with Utah’s vision of energy abundance to power the next wave of economic growth.”

The partnership also ties into broader sustainability goals. By incorporating advanced energy management solutions, Rocky Mountain Power and Torus are paving the way for cleaner, more efficient energy systems that support both residential and commercial users.

How Will the Wattsmart Battery Program Support This Initiative?

The Wattsmart Battery program, an integral part of Rocky Mountain Power’s virtual power plant initiative, is key to the implementation of this partnership. By utilizing Torus’s Nova technology, the program can respond dynamically to grid demands, reducing costs and energy waste.

Technical and commercial discussions for the program’s rollout are underway, with implementation set to begin in early 2025. Full deployment is targeted by the end of the year, signaling a major step toward achieving the goals outlined in Operation Gigawatt.

What Other Projects Highlight Torus’s Energy Leadership?

Torus has been actively transforming local businesses into energy-efficient power hubs. Earlier this month, the company completed a solar and energy storage installation at La Diana Market, a family-owned grocery store in Salt Lake City. The installation, featuring a solar array integrated with Torus’s energy storage and management system, marks another milestone in the company’s mission to strengthen community energy resilience.

“By bringing our advanced energy storage and solar solution to La Diana, we’re helping a valued local business reduce operating costs while strengthening our community’s energy resilience,” Walkingshaw said.

This project was part of the Salt Lake Solar Powered Communities initiative, led by Salt Lake City’s Sustainability Department in partnership with Utah Clean Energy. The program focuses on providing solar solutions to under-resourced areas, prioritizing businesses owned by or serving BIPOC individuals. Funding for the project came from the Urban Sustainability Directors Network (USDN), tax credits, and rebates.

What Does This Mean for Utah’s Energy Landscape?

The partnership between Rocky Mountain Power and Torus represents a pivotal moment for Utah’s energy sector. By combining advanced energy technologies with robust grid management strategies, the state is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable energy innovation. The collaboration is not only expected to meet immediate energy demands but also lay the foundation for long-term economic and environmental benefits.

As Operation Gigawatt progresses, initiatives like these will ensure that Utah remains a net energy exporter, capable of supporting its growing population and booming economy. For businesses and residents alike, the future of energy in Utah promises to be both sustainable and resilient.