Carson, CA — Community members, labor union representatives, educators, faith leaders, and local organizations gathered recently in Carson to celebrate the approval of Ormat Technologies’ Griffith Energy Storage Project.
The event provided an opportunity for Ormat to thank the many individuals and organizations that participated throughout the approval process, expressing their support at countless public meetings and hearings. The broad coalition of vocal Griffith supporters included local schools, churches, community-based organizations, residents, and union labor partners, including the Carpenters and IBEW Local 11.
“The diverse group of individuals and organizations supporting the Griffith Project reflects the many ways clean energy investments can benefit a community,” said Kyle Snyder from Ormat. “Throughout the approval process, local organizations and residents took the time to learn about the project, share their perspectives, and make their voices heard—and for that we are truly appreciative. Their involvement demonstrated strong support for infrastructure that advances environmental goals while creating local economic opportunities.”
The Griffith Project will bring new clean energy infrastructure to Carson through a battery energy storage system. The project will help support a more reliable and sustainable electrical grid for the city and the broader Los Angeles region. Battery energy storage systems capture electricity generated by renewable sources, such as solar, when it is plentiful during the day. That energy can then be stored and returned to the grid when demand is higher.
“Projects like Griffith are important because they invest in a cleaner, more resilient future for our community and create opportunities for students to learn about sustainability in meaningful ways,” said Christie Caric of Towne Avenue Elementary School. “Ormat has been a great neighbor from day one, actively participating in our school community and helping bring our Solar Kitchen to life. Their partnership has given our students a hands-on way to learn about renewable energy, healthy food, and environmental stewardship.”
Battery energy storage is becoming increasingly important as cities such as Carson, along with the broader state of California, transition toward a cleaner energy future. In addition to advancing zero-emission goals, battery storage can benefit the communities it serves by strengthening grid reliability and helping reduce the risk of blackouts and brownouts.
The project’s economic benefits include good-paying jobs for skilled workers who will help bring the Griffith project to life, as well as ongoing tax revenue and community contributions. Its approval represents an important investment in Carson’s clean energy infrastructure and demonstrates what can be accomplished when community members, local organizations, and labor partners come together around a shared vision for a greener and more resilient future.
“Our members are ready and excited to get to work on the Griffith Project,” said Tommy Faavae of IBEW Local 11. “It is especially meaningful to help build important clean energy infrastructure so close to home. This project will create high road careers for the local skilled and trained workforce while leading the way on our clean energy transition.”
“I have seen firsthand the positive work Ormat has done in Carson and the effort they have made to be a genuine community partner,” said Chelsea Sykes, a Carson community member. “I especially appreciated the time their team took to explain the Griffith Project and answer our questions. I am excited to see the project move forward and bring long-term benefits to our community.”
