Vermont home battery network becomes state's largest power source

In Vermont, a network of over 5,500 home battery systems has evolved into a virtual power plant that has become the state’s largest power source. Managed by Green Mountain Power (GMP), the program allows residents to lease battery systems for approximately $55 a month over a 10-year agreement.

The initiative provides homeowners with energy security during frequent power outages caused by extreme weather. Participants have noted that the battery systems serve as a more cost-effective and reliable alternative to traditional gas generators.

On a broader scale, the United States currently possesses over 40GW of virtual power plant capacity. While this remains smaller than the capacity provided by natural gas (600GW) and coal (200GW), analysis by Wood Mackenzie suggests that up to 160GW of capacity could be unlocked by 2030.