World Battery Day is a good reminder that batteries aren’t just for phones and flashlights. They’re also becoming an important part of how we keep Alberta’s electricity system steady especially when demand rises fast or conditions change quickly.

One place you can see that in action is Crossfield Energy Centre.
 

A power plant built for the “right now” moments

Crossfield is a hybrid power plant that combines natural gas generation with battery energy storage. That combination gives the electricity system something it needs more and more often: the ability to respond quickly.

Crossfield includes “fast-start” generation, meaning it can begin supplying electricity in a short amount of time when demand is high. Facilities like this are sometimes called “peaker plants,” built to help cover short periods of higher demand or system stress, rather than running at full output all day. 
 

Why batteries matter for reliability

What makes Crossfield stand out is the battery energy storage system on site.

Batteries have one major advantage: speed. While gas turbines can take several minutes to start, batteries can respond in seconds. That matters because the electricity system has to stay in balance. If supply and demand get out of sync, that can create issues for the system. Fast-responding tools can help bring things back to normal before a small issue becomes a bigger one.

This kind of support is often part of what’s known as “ancillary services” tools and services that help keep the electricity system stable in real time.

Supporting a changing energy mix

As Alberta adds more renewable generation, having flexible resources becomes even more important. Wind and solar are valuable sources of electricity, but their output can change quickly depending on the weather.

That’s where fast-response facilities like Crossfield can help by providing quick support when the system needs it most, and helping keep electricity reliable for the homes, businesses, and communities that count on it every day.