DEPCOM Power, an integrated engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) company that also provides operations and maintenance (O&M) services for utility-scale solar and energy storage markets, has inaugurated Ciro One, Puerto Rico's largest solar and battery energy storage system (BESS) at Salinas on the small Latin American island.
The 90 MW photovoltaic (PV) and 51.5 MW BESS facilities were set up by a group consisting DEPCOM, which conceptualized the project and managed the installation, alongside developer partner Ciro Energy Group and local subcontractor Lord Construction Inc.
Ciro One will generate enough energy to power 60,000 typical Puerto Rican homes, and marks a major step toward meeting Puerto Rico's aim to generate 100 percent of its electricity needs through renewable sources by 2050. The system is expected to begin operation end of 2024. DEPCOM will also operate and maintain the system for a five-year period.
In a statement, Johnnie Taul, CEO of DEPCOM, said: "Ciro One illustrates DEPCOM's strengths in merging large-scale solar deployment, advanced BESS expertise, and integrated EPC and O&M services - building critical infrastructure for the community's energy future."
Ciro One's BESS integrates a lithium-titanate oxide (LTO) battery, which delivers higher cycling power and lower degradation than more commonly used lithium iron phosphate technology (LFP).
Utilizing Lithium Titanate Oxide (LTO) batteries extends the solar power system's lifespan to a guaranteed 25 years, surpassing the 20-year expectancy of Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP). The system is designed for resilience, with features like a lower panel tilt angle and east/west row orientation to withstand hurricane-force winds. The inverter technology includes salt fog filters, protecting power electronics from corrosion in salty environments. In summary, this solar system ensures long-term reliability, durability in extreme weather, and resistance to corrosive elements, making it a sustainable and robust energy solution.
DEPCOM has developed a resilient solution for grid failures by isolating its Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) from the grid. Instead of relying on diesel generators, the BESS is connected to a Photovoltaic (PV) array for a self-sustaining power supply during outages. This not only enhances system reliability but also aligns with a commitment to sustainability by reducing reliance on fossil fuels. DEPCOM's innovative approach sets a precedent for resilient and environmentally friendly energy solutions.
