California American Water Completes Installation of New Battery Backup System in Madera County to Strengthen Resilience

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09/10/2025 - 03:49 PM

HILLVIEW, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- California American Water is strengthening emergency preparedness and enhancing reliability by installing battery energy storage systems (BESS) in high-risk regions across the state. The newest system, the first of its kind for the company in Madera County, is located at the Sierra Lakes Water Treatment Plant in Hillview and represents California American Water’s commitment to critical investment in maintaining and protecting water service during emergencies and Public Safety Power Shutoffs.

“This installation reflects months of planning and collaboration,” said Audie Foster, Director of Operations of California American Water’s Northern Division. “We’re proud to deliver a solution that not only improves reliability but also aligns with our sustainability goals.”

Public Safety Power Shutoffs, usually initiated by electric utilities to prevent wildfires, can disrupt water infrastructure that relies on uninterrupted power. Each grid-charged battery system can provide up to 24 hours of backup power and is tailored to site-specific needs.

The $800,000 Hillview project is supported in part by California’s Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP), a state-administered initiative that encourages clean energy investments, which will contribute nearly $350,000 toward the project’s total cost. The BESS will replace diesel generators, offering cleaner, more reliable energy in a region where outages regularly occur.

“Adding systems that enhance reliability and resilience like these to reinforce our water infrastructure, is a top priority for California American Water” says Foster. “The BESS represents a smart, sustainable investment in the safety of the communities we serve.”

California American Water began deploying BESS technology in Ventura County in 2020, following PSPS events and wildfires. The company continues to assess additional sites for future installations as part of its long-term resilience strategy. The company remains committed to expanding clean energy solutions that reinforce infrastructure and support communities statewide.

About American Water

American Water (NYSE: AWK) is the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States. With a history dating back to 1886, We Keep Life Flowing® by providing safe, clean, reliable and affordable drinking water and wastewater services to more than 14 million people with regulated operations in 14 states and on 18 military installations. American Water’s 6,700 talented professionals leverage their significant expertise and the company’s national size and scale to achieve excellent outcomes for the benefit of customers, employees, investors and other stakeholders.

For more information, visit amwater.com and join American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and Instagram.

About California American Water

California American Water, a subsidiary of American Water, provides safe, clean, reliable and affordable water and wastewater services to approximately 750,000 people.