TurningPoint Energy launches community storage aid initiative
In response to the growing adoption of battery storage technology, TurningPoint Energy has launched its Energy Storage Community Support Program, officials say.
With the new program, TurningPoint aims to help communities prepare themselves for the proliferation of solar plus storage assets in their local area. By committing $100,000 to each community involved, the renewable energy development firm will provide dedicated funding to local emergency service providers, supporting emergency readiness, training, and equipment.
The company says while batteries are already a part of daily life, energy storage systems connected to solar and other renewables are relatively new to the U.S. As these practices become more widespread, TurningPoint Energy aims to fill the information gap about these technologies and their role in the evolving energy sector.
“As energy storage technologies become increasingly common in our daily lives, communities and emergency responders deserve access to resources that help them stay ahead of the curve,” says Mike Marsch, VP of development at TurningPoint Energy. “The Energy Storage Community Support Program reflects our commitment to being a strong community partner while supporting the safe deployment of modern energy infrastructure.”
TurningPoint developed the program to build both knowledge and confidence in battery storage projects. Funding will become available prior to project construction, the company says.
Community investment in the Prairie State
Illinois has become a hot spot for solar and battery storage in recent years, since the passing of the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) in 2021. Aiming to expand the state’s overall renewable portfolio, the law more than doubled annual funding for the Illinois Solar for All program, giving solar access to low-income areas around the state.
Now, TurningPoint Energy is turning to the Land of Lincoln for some of its first markets for the Energy Storage Community Support Program.
“At the same time, grid-scale energy storage projects are being developed across Illinois to strengthen grid reliability and to combat rising electricity prices,” the company says. “With the passage of the Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability Act in 2025, Illinois is positioning energy storage as a key tool for supporting economic growth, meeting future energy needs, and managing rising electricity costs.”
The wider program builds on TurningPoint’s existing commitment to community investment in the U.S. The company says it and its corporate partners have provided more than $6.3 million in community investments to local organizations and nonprofits since 2014. In Illinois alone, the firm has contributed more than $5.1 million during that time.
