Lightshift Energy to Build Vermont’s Largest Energy Storage Project to Power Semiconductor Manufacturing for GlobalFoundries

The 16-MW battery will manage the peak load of GF’s semiconductor manufacturing facility in Essex Junction

ARLINGTON, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Lightshift Energy, a leading developer, owner, and operator of energy storage projects, will build Vermont’s largest battery energy storage project at GlobalFoundries’ semiconductor manufacturing facility in Essex Junction. The project, which has completed permitting and contracting, will begin construction this year and is set to come online in early 2026.

This project represents a forward-thinking approach to integrating battery technology within a large-scale manufacturing facility. Connecting directly to GF’s switchyard, the 16MW/52MWh system will be used primarily for peak shaving by storing electricity during periods of low regional demand and discharging it during peak times to alleviate grid stress. By lowering peak energy usage, the project will also improve regional grid resilience and reduce reliance on fossil fuels, particularly during high-demand periods when natural gas is the primary fuel source on the New England grid.

“GF has been a great partner on this project, which will not only reduce energy costs for its Vermont campus but also support regional electric reliability and Vermont’s clean energy goals,” said Michael Herbert, Lightshift Co-Founder and Managing Partner. “This project represents new applications for energy storage within the semiconductor industry, demonstrating how managing peak demand can improve efficiency for industrial operations, and how energy storage can be used to mitigate the impacts of large loads on the electric grid.”

“GF has consistently demonstrated its commitment to sustainable manufacturing and maintaining global competitiveness right here in Vermont, while also being a supportive corporate citizen for the community. Partnering with Lightshift aligns perfectly with these objectives and supports the sustainability goals of our customers, while propelling both GF and Vermont forward,” said Ken McAvey, General Manager of GF Vermont.

About Lightshift Energy

Lightshift Energy is a utility-scale energy storage project developer, owner and operator headquartered in Arlington, Virginia. Founded in 2019, Lightshift is developing a diverse, multi-gigawatt pipeline of energy storage projects, located throughout the U.S. With leading energy storage analytics, application design, finance, and development expertise, Lightshift deploys dynamic, multi-use energy storage projects that maximize value for utilities and other partners, while reinvesting directly into the communities where their projects are located. For more information, please visit www.lightshift.com.