Hydrostor Unveils Groundbreaking Willow Rock Energy Storage Center in California
DENVER, February 12, 2026 — Hydrostor, a leader in long-duration energy storage (LDES), has announced a significant step in renewable energy infrastructure with the Willow Rock Energy Storage Center. This innovative project has secured a 50 MW offtake agreement with California Community Power (CC Power) benefiting six community choice aggregator members.
Overview of Willow Rock Energy Storage Center
The Willow Rock Energy Storage Center is set to revolutionize the way California harnesses and distributes energy. Designed as a 500 MW / 4,000 MWh advanced compressed air energy storage (A-CAES) facility, it will have the capacity to provide continuous power to the grid for up to eight hours. This sustainable solution is instrumental in enhancing the reliability and stability of electricity for the community power aggregators within the California grid.
Commitment to Clean Energy
“Hydrostor’s Willow Rock project not only addresses critical grid needs but also champions clean energy solutions,” stated Alexander Morris, General Manager of CC Power. Morris emphasized the project’s use of domestic resources, off-the-shelf turbomachinery, and environmentally friendly elements—air and water—for energy storage. Through the collaboration with Hydrostor, CC Power is advancing California’s ambitious energy goals while promoting local employment and investment opportunities.
Key Partners in the Agreement
The six CC Power members benefitting from this agreement include:
- CleanPowerSF
- Peninsula Clean Energy
- Redwood Coast Energy Authority
- San Jose Clean Energy
- Silicon Valley Clean Energy Authority
- Valley Clean Energy Authority
These partner organizations are committed to diversifying California’s energy grid and ensuring its reliability as demand increases.
Industry Impact and Future Prospects
Jon Norman, President of Hydrostor, praised the agreement with CC Power, highlighting its role in shaping a resilient and future-proof energy grid. Hydrostor is actively scaling its advanced long-duration storage capabilities in key markets including the United States, Australia, and Canada. As electricity demand escalates—driven in part by advancements in AI and data centers—projects like Willow Rock are essential.
Timeline and Project Milestones
The Willow Rock project has already made significant strides. It received approval from the California Energy Commission in December of last year and secured a franchise agreement from the Kern County Board of Supervisors. The project is scheduled to commence operations by 2030, showcasing a commitment to timely implementation.
About Hydrostor
Hydrostor operates as a premier developer of long-duration energy storage systems using a patented technology that utilizes compressed air and water. Established in 2010, the company has expanded its footprint globally, with projects in North America, Australia, and Europe. Notable investors include Goldman Sachs Alternatives and CPP Investments, providing robust financial backing for innovative energy projects.
For further details, visit Hydrostor’s website or check out their LinkedIn page.
About California Community Power
California Community Power (CC Power) is a Joint Powers Authority formed in 2021, enabling its nine member CCAs to leverage collective buying power for cost-effective clean energy procurement. Serving over 3 million customers, CC Power contributes significantly to California’s clean energy landscape.
To learn more about CC Power’s initiatives and member organizations, visit California Community Power’s website.
Conclusion
The Willow Rock Energy Storage Center stands as a testament to innovation in renewable energy. By harnessing advanced compressed air energy storage technology, Hydrostor and CC Power are poised to play a pivotal role in addressing California’s growing energy needs while reaffirming the commitment to sustainability and reliability.
For additional information on the project and its impact, you can view the source article here.
