Convergent Energy and Power, a key player in North America’s energy storage sector, has officially begun construction on a new 3MW/9MWh battery energy storage system for the West Boylston Municipal Light Plant (WBMLP), a municipally-owned utility in Massachusetts. The project is designed to support grid reliability, control electricity costs, and further bolster the town’s use of renewable energy.
Convergent will fully finance, own, and operate the system, applying its in-house optimization software, PEAK IQ®, to strategically manage charging and discharging operations. This approach will enable WBMLP to store power when it is both low-cost and environmentally friendly, and discharge it during peak demand periods—when electricity is most expensive and carbon-intensive.
The initiative comes at a critical time for utilities in ISO New England, where rising transmission costs—specifically the Regional Network Service (RNS) charges—are forecasted to jump by 20% in 2025. Energy storage systems like Convergent’s are increasingly recognized for their ability to reduce such costs, enhance renewable energy performance, and improve grid reliability.
Currently, 56% of WBMLP’s power supply comes from clean and renewable sources, placing it ahead of Massachusetts’ climate targets. The new battery system will be sited alongside the town’s existing solar and flywheel assets, maximizing synergies and reinforcing WBMLP’s commitment to sustainable energy delivery.
“This battery storage system will allow West Boylston Municipal Light Plant to continue delivering reliable, sustainable, cost-effective electricity to our customers,” said Jon Fitch, General Manager at WBMLP. “We’re thrilled to work with Convergent to keep electricity rates manageable while pushing ahead of our state’s climate goals.”
Johannes Rittershausen, CEO of Convergent Energy and Power, emphasized the broader implications of the project “With U.S. electricity demand expected to grow 50% by 2050, energy storage is more vital than ever. We’re proud to support the clean energy transition in Massachusetts and bring a smarter, more affordable, and resilient grid to the West Boylston community.”
The battery storage system is expected to be fully operational by Q3 2025.
