PHOENIX — The federal government is spending millions of dollars to support three battery energy storage system projects in Arizona, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

The $55.2 million award from the U.S. Department of Agriculture will fund three projects led by Sierra Southwest Cooperative Services in Arizona, according to an announcement last week.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the company is working on three battery energy storage systems to provide clean energy to rural communities.

The USDA is providing over $375 million in funding through the Powering Affordable Clean Energy and Rural Energy for America programs.

“Rural Development empowers rural communities to take responsibility for their energy future and contribute to President Biden’s national goal of reducing carbon dioxide emissions and combating climate change,” said Fernandez.

Funding for the projects comes from two federal programs: the Powering Affordable Clean Energy Program and the Rural Energy for America Program. Both are part of President Joe Biden's Justice40 initiative, which supports disadvantaged communities.

Three battery storage system projects benefit different districts

Charlene Fernandez, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's state director of rural development for Arizona, said the administration is passionate about promoting environmentally friendly practices in underserved areas.

“The Biden-Harris administration is delivering on our promise of affordable clean energy in rural areas Arizona,” Fernandez said in a press release.

The three battery storage systems have a capacity of 35 megawatts and can operate for hours, the press release said. However, the authorities did not specify whether each system has 35 megawatts and can operate for four hours or whether these figures apply to the capacity of the three systems combined. KTAR News 92.3 FM has asked for further details but has not yet received a response.

However, Fernandez's statement said the award will promote economic growth, job creation and sustainability in Pima, Santa Cruz, Graham, Cochise, Greenlee and Mohave counties.