Rye Development

As energy demand grows and power systems become more complex, short-term storage alone isn’t enough. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, long-duration energy storage is essential for maintaining grid reliability, especially during extended periods of high demand or reduced generation. Pumped storage hydropower already accounts for roughly 90% of all grid-scale energy storage capacity in the U.S., making it the most proven and dependable long-duration energy storage solution available today.

Our energy infrastructure needs to be able to withstand disruptions and recover quickly, even during emergencies. Long-duration energy storage, including pumped storage hydropower, plays a vital role in strengthening the grid. Built to last a century or more, these facilities rely primarily on American-made materials (mostly concrete and steel), helping reduce dependence on foreign supply chains At Rye Development, we’re proud to be advancing a new generation of the world's most proven form of long-duration energy storage.

In May, we celebrate National Skilled Trades Day, a chance to recognize the workforce that makes energy infrastructure possible. From engineers and electricians to plumbers and construction professionals, pumped storage projects depend on highly skilled teams with hands-on experience to build and maintain these critical energy facilities. Rye Development is proud to support projects that create meaningful, skilled jobs in communities across the country. #energyjobs #localimpact #pumpedstorage #hydropower #energystorage

Reliable energy infrastructure isn’t built for the next year—it’s built for the next century. Pumped storage hydropower facilities are designed to operate for 100+ years, providing dependable energy storage that supports grid stability during extreme weather events, peak demand, and evolving energy needs. At Rye Development, we’re focused on delivering projects that help utilities, communities, and energy markets plan confidently for the long term. #EnergySecurity #GridReliability #PumpedStorage

We're looking forward to presenting an update on the Lewis Ridge Pumped Storage Project at the 15th Annual Kentucky Energy Management Conference hosted by the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce. Brianne Wilson, PE, PMP, and Sandy Slayton will share insights into how pumped storage would benefit Kentucky's grid and the local economic benefits it would provide. We hope to see you there! https://lnkd.in/g43nCvux

Two PPL Corporation utilities — Louisville Gas and Electric and Kentucky Utilities — are studying the 266-MW Lewis Ridge Pumped Storage Project in southeast Kentucky, which would come online at a time of surging energy demand. Pumped storage technology, among the oldest and most proven forms of utility-scale energy storage, is seeing a resurgence around the country. “This is really an amazing time, driven by AI primarily, but also increasing industrial and manufacturing demand across the country,” Rye CEO, Paul Jacob recently told Ethan Howland with Utility Dive. “We see a huge market for storage of all kinds — and certainly, pumped storage is a big piece of that.” Read more: https://lnkd.in/gu4GQqSR

Across the U.S., communities with deep energy traditions are helping lead the next chapter of America’s power system. Projects like the Lewis Ridge Pumped Storage Project in Kentucky are transforming former mining lands into critical energy storage infrastructure—supporting regional job creation while strengthening the grid. It’s a powerful example of how proven technology can build on local expertise while creating new opportunities for the future. #EnergyTransition #InfrastructureInvestment #Hydropower

This was a big week for the hydropower industry! The Build More Hydro Bill will expand access to reliable, firm power at a time of increasing energy demands. Thanks to Rep. Dan Newhouse, Sen. Steve Daines, and Sen. John Fetterman for leading this bill in Congress. And thanks to the National Hydropower Association for all of your work on this!

With energy demand on the rise, projects like the Lewis Ridge Pumped Storage Project in Bell County, Kentucky, can help improve reliability and affordability issues both locally and across the region, Rye Development CEO Paul Jacob recently told the Lexington Herald-Leader. We're encouraged by a new partnership with two PPL Corporation utilities – Louisville Gas and Electric and Kentucky Utilities – to study the 266-MW project. Read more: https://lnkd.in/gj_mMaf6

Major infrastructure projects can reshape communities for generations. The Goldendale Energy Storage Project in Washington state represents a transformative opportunity for the Pacific Northwest—bringing long-duration energy storage to the region while creating an estimated 3,000 construction jobs and millions in local tax revenue. Projects like Goldendale demonstrate how modern energy infrastructure can strengthen local economies while supporting the evolving needs of the power grid. #EnergyStorage #EconomicDevelopment #Infrastructure