1 GW storage deal aims to deliver round-the-clock renewable power for data centers

Noon Energy and Sabanci Renewables plan to co-develop up to 1 GW of ultra-long-duration energy storage projects designed to provide round-the-clock renewable power for large computing infrastructure. The partnership will combine Noon Energy’s reversible electrofuels battery systems with Sabanci Renewables’ portfolio of utility-scale renewable projects. The companies say the systems could deliver up to 100 GWh of storage, helping solar and wind power operate as a firm electricity source rather than depending on generation conditions. Commercial deployment could begin as early as 2027, although the companies have not announced a specific project, site or final investment decision. The agreement comes as electricity demand from large data centers is rising, increasing pressure on developers to find power sources that are reliable and lower in emissions. Long-duration storage can address a key limitation of renewable power by shifting electricity generated during periods of high solar or wind output to periods when generation falls. Storage beyond lithium batteries Noon Energy’s technology is designed for storage lasting more than 100 hours. Instead of relying on lithium and other relatively scarce metals, the company’s system stores energy using abundant elements including carbon and oxygen. The partnership is targeting projects with up to 1 GW of power capacity and 100 GWh of storage. That scale is aimed at serving large electricity users that need steady power around the clock. At that maximum scale, the storage system could theoretically deliver 1 GW continuously for 100 hours, although actual operating performance would depend on project design and other factors. “Partnering with an established and forward-thinking company like Sabanci Renewables marks a critical step in accelerating the path to commercialization for our ultra-LDES technology,” said Chris Graves, Noon Energy CEO. “In this cooperation we will develop the commercial, technical, and operational frameworks to unlock a 100 percent reliable and renewable grid for cents per kWh using multi-day energy storage.” Building firm renewable power Sabanci Renewables currently operates and is constructing four utility-scale solar plants in Texas’ ERCOT market, with a combined capacity of 790 MWdc. The company is targeting a 3 GW renewable portfolio in the U.S. over the next five years. The new agreement could allow future renewable projects to be paired with long-duration storage from the outset, giving developers a more predictable electricity delivery profile. Murat Oguz Arcan, chief growth officer of Sabanci Renewables and managing director of Sabanci Climate Ventures, said the partnership could help build infrastructure needed for growing computing demand. “We believe that supporting the growth of AI through innovative power solutions is essential to enabling timely, sustainable growth. By bridging Noon Energy’s ultra long duration energy storage technology with Sabanci Renewables’ renewable energy expertise, we aim to contribute to the development of the clean, reliable, and scalable energy infrastructure that the AI economy will require.” Noon Energy has raised more than $45 million in venture capital and government grants. The companies will now evaluate project opportunities while developing the commercial, technical, and operational frameworks needed for potential deployment.Get the latest in engineering, tech, space & science - delivered daily to your inbox.With over a decade-long career in journalism, Neetika Walter has worked with The Economic Times, ANI, and Hindustan Times, covering politics, business, technology, and the clean energy sector. Passionate about contemporary culture, books, poetry, and storytelling, she brings depth and insight to her writing. When she isn’t chasing stories, she’s likely lost in a book or enjoying the company of her dogs.