In an era where energy costs are a significant concern for many organizations, Rise Energy, under the leadership of founder Josh Allen, is making a substantial impact by providing innovative energy solutions to Texas churches. One notable example is a 40-year-old church with multiple campuses in Lubbock, Texas, which has realized significant financial benefits through this partnership.
Josh Allen, a former CPA with a robust background in accounting, finance, and investments, has spent the past two decades managing his own investment company. His expertise spans real estate investment and development, private financing, and lending for clients and investors who may not fit the traditional banking mold. Allen’s entrepreneurial spirit also led him to establish a title company aimed at delivering a fresh and exceptional title experience. His diverse experience and commitment to innovation have been instrumental in driving Rise Energy’s success.
Rise Energy collaborates with Branch Energy to equip churches with free commercial backup batteries installed on-site. These batteries serve as backup power sources during outages, ensuring uninterrupted operations. Branch Energy manages the installation, operation, and maintenance of these battery systems, providing a comprehensive, end-to-end energy management solution.
The financial advantages for churches are twofold. Firstly, the backup batteries allow churches to store excess energy, which can be utilized during peak demand periods, leading to substantial reductions in energy expenses. Secondly, Branch Energy compensates the churches with a 10-year site license fee, effectively paying them thousands of dollars annually for hosting the battery systems.
The increasing adoption of battery energy storage systems (BESS) in Texas is playing a crucial role in enhancing grid resilience, reducing energy costs, and providing essential backup power during emergencies. According to the American Clean Power Association (ACP), the addition of approximately 5 gigawatts (GW) of energy storage capacity in Texas since 2023 has led to at least $750 million in energy cost reductions. These deployments have improved grid reliability, enabling the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) to avoid conservation notices during periods of high demand. (Source: cleanpower.org)
Battery storage also facilitates the integration of renewable energy sources by storing excess energy produced during peak generation periods and releasing it during high-demand times. This capability enhances the stability of the power supply and reduces reliance on fossil fuels. Furthermore, BESS provides immediate backup power during outages, bolstering grid resilience and reducing the need for emergency fossil-fuel-powered generation. This is particularly vital during extreme weather events, which have historically challenged Texas’s power infrastructure. (Source: paylesspower.com & gotrhythm.com)
The financial benefits for consumers are also substantial. In the summer of 2024, energy storage deployments in Texas contributed to $750 million in energy cost reductions, directly benefiting consumers. Local initiatives are further enhancing resilience, with partnerships aiming to provide stored energy through whole-home battery backup systems, reducing reliance on the Texas power grid and improving cost savings for utility members during weather-related emergencies. (Source: arevonenergy.com & mysanantonio.com)
The partnership between Rise Energy and Branch Energy exemplifies how innovative collaborations can lead to practical solutions that address both economic and environmental challenges. By focusing on the specific needs of community institutions like churches, they are fostering a more resilient and sustainable energy future for Texas.
