Public Service Commission Approves Permit For Battery Storage Facility

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The North Dakota Public Service Commission has approved a permit for Northern Divide Energy Storage to build a new 20-acre battery storage facility in Burke County, about 10 miles south of Columbus. The $130 million project will be able to store up to 100 megawatts of power from a nearby wind farm.

Why it matters

This project is part of North Dakota's growing investment in renewable energy infrastructure, including battery storage to help stabilize the grid and maximize the use of wind power. It follows the recent approval of another major battery storage facility in the state, signaling the region's commitment to transitioning to cleaner energy sources.

The details

Northern Divide Energy Storage's new battery storage facility will span 20 acres and be capable of storing up to 100 megawatts of electricity generated by a nearby wind farm. The $130 million project was granted a permit by the North Dakota Public Service Commission, clearing the way for construction to begin.

• The Public Service Commission approved the permit on February 19, 2026.
• This is the second major battery storage project to be approved in North Dakota this year.

What’s next

With the permit approved, Northern Divide Energy Storage can now begin construction on the new battery storage facility, which is expected to be operational by the end of 2027.