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Planet Money

Planet Money

Re-imagining the energy grid ... through batteries (Two Indicators)

Jan 29, 2025 · 18m

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On this episode

About this episode

When it comes to solar and wind power, renewable energy has always had a caveat: it can only run when the wind blows or the sun shines. The idea of a battery was floated around to make renewables available 24/7. For years, it existed as an expensive, little-used technology. Then in 2021, it took off. In this episode, we explore how this new energy market works in two states: California and Texas. In California, there is now enough grid-scale battery storage to power millions of homes — at least for a few hours — and it's growing fast. What does this success mean for the grid, and how did the state support it? Then, we visit Texas, whose approach is more free-market rodeo. The state has the…