Nucor and Aligned Invest in Energy Storage Systems Ahead of 2026 Demand Surge

Nucor and Aligned are investing in energy storage systems to enhance electricity capacity amid supply constraints, with significant projects underway. Nucor's Arizona facility will utilize a 50 MW battery system, integrated with solar energy, to support its steel production.

Aligned is deploying a 31 MW energy storage system at its data center in the Pacific Northwest. Worldwide, 92 GW of energy storage is expected to be deployed by 2025, with the U.S. and China as leading markets.

Despite modest projections for commercial and industrial installations in 2026, the phaseout of solar and wind tax incentives is prompting businesses to consider energy storage for cost reduction and emissions goals. Most installations use lithium-ion technology, but companies like Google are exploring longer-duration formats. Incentives for energy storage projects remain available, and states are offering programs to encourage load reduction during peak demand.