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Eolian

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Enabling a flexible future for ERCOT

Adding stability to Texas' grid

Amidst a rising frequency of extreme weather events, increasing penetration of intermittent resources and the need for fast-responding generation in Texas, the state needs more flexible resource solutions like energy storage for grid support and energy resource optimisation. 

With over 500 megawatt-hours (MWh) of capacity as a combined project, Madero and Ignacio provides the longest duration of any energy storage assets currently operating in ERCOT through the facility’s multi-hour continuous dispatch capability.

Meeting market needs with industry-leading hardware and new software applications

The facilities are optimised with both Eolian and Wärtsilä’s software solutions. Wärtsilä’s GEMS platform is a critical aspect of the system, which monitors and controls the flow of energy, enabling these projects to provide grid support during periods of grid instability. With Wärtsilä’s standalone storage solution, the projects will deliver key ancillary services required for grid stability, such as fast frequency response and frequency regulation. The Madero and Ignacio sites are the first systems to use GEMS to qualify for fast frequency response in the ERCOT market.

The project includes Wärtsilä’s GridSolve Quantum, a fully integrated modular and compact energy storage system that offers the lowest life cycle costs, fastest deployment times, highest quality control and maximum flexibility.

WhoEolian
What200 MW / 500 MWh+
WhereSouth Texas, USA

Delivered capacity

200

MW of energy storage capacity

500

MWh+ of energy storage capacity

In the midst of an uncertain market redesign process, Eolian invested hundreds of millions of dollars to construct these projects using cutting-edge technology. Madero and Ignacio are the definition of functional dispatchability and will keep the lights on while keeping electricity affordable.

 


Aaron Zubaty, CEO, Eolian

How we did it

Challenge icon

Challenge

  • Meet the rapidly evolving flexibility and reliability needs of the ERCOT market
  • Deliver grid infrastructure during a difficult period including a global pandemic and severe supply chain disruptions
Solution icon

Solution

  • Completed project on time and without large cost disruptions
  • GEMS monitors and controls the flow of energy
  • Wärtsilä’s standalone storage solution delivers key ancillary services required for grid stability
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    Benefit

    • Flexible capacity for grid support and energy resource optimisation to ensure a smooth transition from older inflexible generation
    • Improve grid stability in Texas after several extreme weather events with fast-ramping resources that can quickly adjust to unforeseen conditions driven by supply or demand volatility
    • Provide year-round reliable operational ramping capacity in ERCOT

      The main details

      CustomerEolian
      Site size200 MW / 500 MWh+
      Site locationSouth Texas, USA
      Application(s)Fast Frequency Response (FFR), Frequency Regulation, Responsive Reserve Service (RRS), Storage+
      Scope of servicesEngineered Equipment Delivery (EEQ), Service+ GAP
      Delivery2023
      Eolian Madero and Ignacio location

      Would you like to know more?

      Case study

      Read the case study to get all the project details or the project press release.

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      Related solutions and services

      Related news

      Wärtsilä begins construction of a 50 MW / 100 MWh energy storage system to bolster grid stability in Belgium

      Feb 16, 2026, 15:00 by Wärtsilä Corporation

      Technology group Wärtsilä has been selected by Gramme Storage 1 to deliver a 50 MW / 100MWh battery energy storage system in central-eastern Belgium. Through the Gramme 1 project, Wärtsilä and Gramme Storage 1 will support Belgium’s transition toward a more sustainable, efficient, renewable energy system. Construction is now underway and the site is expected to be completed by Q2 2027. The order was booked in Q2 2025.

      “This project with Wärtsilä underscores our commitment to dependable, flexible energy in Belgium”, said Guillaume Poncelet, Managing Director at Kallima Energies – the Liège based developer of the project. “This collaboration highlights the growing role of battery energy storage in supporting Belgium’s electricity system. By delivering essential ancillary services, the system will play a vital role in balancing the grid.”

      Gramme 1 represents Wärtsilä’s first energy storage project participating in Belgium’s Capacity Remuneration Mechanism (CRM). This framework is designed to ensure Belgium’s energy supply security by enabling assets to deliver essential grid services such as frequency and voltage support that contribute to electricity system resilience and dependability.

      “This project in partnership with Gramme Storage 1 reflects our shared focus on supporting Belgium’s energy security and grid stability during the transition to a more renewable power system,” said David Hebert, Vice President of Global Sales Management, Wärtsilä Energy Storage. “Wärtsilä’s advanced technology will enable the site to provide critical ancillary services that support a resilient, future-ready grid.”

      Gramme 1 will utilise Wärtsilä's GridSolveTM Quantum2 energy storage system together with its control and optimisation software, GEMS, to deliver a standalone, fully integrated solution that enhances grid flexibility, reliability, and sustainability. Wärtsilä will also deliver the project under an engineered equipment delivery (EEQ) contract, with guaranteed asset performance under a separate long-term service agreement. With this project underway, Wärtsilä’s energy storage portfolio in Europe now exceeds 2.7 GWh.


      Media contact for more information on this release:
      Amanda Young 
      Director, Marketing & Communications 
      Wärtsilä Energy Storage 
      [email protected]

      Image caption: Wärtsilä begins construction of a 50 MW / 100 MWh energy storage system in Belgium. © Wärtsilä Corporation

      All Wärtsilä releases are available at www.wartsila.com/media/news-releases and at news.cision.com/wartsila-corporation where also the images can be downloaded. Use of the image(s) is allowed only in connection with the contents of this press release. Wärtsilä images are available at www.wartsila.com/media/image-bank
       
      Wärtsilä Energy Storage in brief  
      Wärtsilä Energy Storage is at the forefront of the transition towards a 100% renewable energy future. We help customers accelerate global decarbonisation efforts by combining proven technologies with deep grid expertise. Our portfolio includes high-performance hardware, intelligent controls and optimisation software, and full-service lifecycle support to deliver lasting value across the project lifespan. From enhancing grid stability to unlocking flexibility and operational efficiency, our utility-scale battery energy storage solutions are built for real-world performance. Trusted by top-tier utilities, developers, and system operators, Wärtsilä Energy Storage has a global footprint across 130+ sites—delivering the scale, safety, and reliability needed to power the energy transition.  
      www.wartsila.com/energy

      Wärtsilä in brief 
      Wärtsilä is a global leader in innovative technologies and lifecycle solutions for the marine and energy industries. We emphasise innovation in sustainable technology and services to help our customers continuously improve environmental and economic performance. Our dedicated and passionate team of 17,900 professionals in 199 locations in 78 countries shape the decarbonisation transformation of our industries across the globe. In 2025, Wärtsilä’s net sales totalled EUR 6.9 billion. Wärtsilä is listed on Nasdaq Helsinki.
      www.wartsila.com 

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