LINCOLN, Neb. (July 17, 2026) — Lincoln Electric System today celebrated the launch of its first utility-scale battery energy storage system, a milestone project that will strengthen grid reliability, support the LES Community Microgrid and expand the utility’s energy storage capabilities.
LES Administrative Board members, elected officials and community leaders gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the new facility. LES leaders joined project partners, WATTMORE, Bridge Renewables and Eos Energy in unveiling the battery system at LES’ S 2nd and N streets substation within the LES Community Microgrid in downtown Lincoln.
The project features a 3-megawatt, four-hour zinc battery system that stores electricity when demand and prices are low and delivers it back to the grid when needed most. The battery will be used to reduce peak demand, provide operational flexibility and help maximize the value of renewable generation.
The battery system also enhances the LES Community Microgrid, an innovative initiative designed to help support critical public facilities and services during extended outages, including those that might be caused by major disruptive events. The microgrid serves an area that includes key government, public safety and community facilities, and the new battery adds approximately 10% to the microgrid’s existing supply capability.
“Battery storage is a core part of utility infrastructure,” said Nathan Kroeker, chief commercial officer of Eos. “The deployment of Eos’ Z3™ zinc-based technology at LES shows how long-duration storage can help utilities strengthen reliability, improve system flexibility and support critical community assets with a safe, American-made energy storage solution.”
Over the coming weeks, WATTMORE and Eos Energy will complete final commissioning activities and begin monitoring daily performance during commercial operations.
"We are proud to see this utility-scale energy storage system at the finish line," said Jonathan (J.W.) Postal, founder and chief executive officer of WATTMORE. “WATTMORE is pleased to contribute to such an innovative project.”
The project also supports LES’ strategic plan, Powering LES Forward, by advancing reliable and resilient infrastructure, strengthening operational flexibility and creating opportunities to manage energy costs through energy storage.
“Today’s ribbon cutting reflects LES’ long-standing commitment to practical innovation and responsible planning,” said Emeka Anyanwu, chief executive officer of LES. “Projects like this help ensure we continue delivering safe, resilient and affordable energy while building a stronger and more sustainable future for our community.”
Learn more about the LES Community Microgrid at LES.com/Microgrid and Powering LES Forward at LES.com/Strategic-Plan.