Crowned Ridge Energy Storage I Files Notice of Intent for $174 Million Battery Facility Near Watertown

Advanced renewable energy facility featuring solar panels, wind turbines, and energy storage units against a cityscape, emphasizing sustainable power solutions.

Northeast Radio SD News - Watertown, SD - Crowned Ridge Energy Storage I, LLC ("CRES") has filed a Notice of Intent with the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission (PUC) to construct, own, and operate a 120-megawatt (MW), 4-hour Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in Codington County, South Dakota. The company estimates the total cost of construction for the proposed facility to be approximately $174 million.

The filing, dated October 15, 2025, is required under South Dakota state law after the PUC denied CRES's petition to disclaim jurisdiction on October 1, 2025. The Commission's order found that the BESS was not excluded from the statutory definition of an energy conversion facility, requiring CRES to apply for a facility permit.

Project Details and Location

The proposed BESS will be located on approximately 15.4 acres of land within the existing Crowned Ridge I Wind Energy Facility project area. The specific location is at the southeast intersection of 464th Avenue and 161st Street. The facility will connect to the existing Crowned Ridge Wind Collector Substation via an approximately 1,355-foot collection line. CRES is proceeding with the project on property secured with a voluntarily executed lease that includes a purchase option agreement.

The majority of the land that the BESS will impact is agricultural. The company states the project is not expected to have significant impacts on the environment, wildlife, or human residences, nor is it anticipated to affect terrestrial ecosystems adversely.

Economic Impact and Timeline

The BESS is expected to pay property taxes and create one to two full-time positions. The construction phase will require approximately 180 construction workers.

The Notice of Intent outlines the following estimated schedule:

·        Application Filing: April 2026

·        Permit Issuance: April 2027

·        Construction Start: May 2027, with a duration of 9 to 12 months

·        Commercial Operation: Anticipated between December 2027 and May 2028

Required Permits and Local Contacts

CRES will need to secure a Facility Permit from the PUC, a Conditional Use Permit, a Road Use Agreement, and a Building Permit from Codington County. The company noted that no Federal permits are required for the project.

As part of the filing requirements, CRES provided a list of local officials and tribal leaders in the anticipated affected area:

Role	Name	Organization/Address
Watertown Mayor	Ried Holien	23 2nd St NE, Watertown, SD 57201
School Board President	Jon Iverson	Watertown School District 200 9th St NE, Watertown, SD 57201
County Commission	Tryo VanDusen (Chair), Lee Gabel, Tyler McElhany, Myron Johnson, Randy Schweer	Codington County 14 1st Ave SE, Watertown, SD 57201
Tribal Chairman	J. Garret Renville	12554 BIA Highway 711, Agency Village, SD 57262

CRES is formally requesting a prefiling conference with the PUC to take place in March 2026.