The facilities that aid in storing electrical energy, known as Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), are crucial in transitioning to renewable energy sources in the state of New York. The Suffolk County Planning Commission has recommended the adoption of two special laws in Southold and Southampton cities that impose a moratorium on the construction of new BESS. The report includes 15 proposed amendments to fire safety regulations to prevent and minimize fires in BESS facilities.
Southampton City is considering extending the moratorium for six months. The city seeks an extension as it awaits recommendations from the Inter-Agency Fire Safety Working Group and plans to create a task force comprising of experts and community representatives who will collectively develop detailed regulations regarding the planning and location of BESS.
Southold City implemented a one-year moratorium in April of last year. Riverhead also considered a temporary moratorium last year but decided it was unnecessary after receiving recommendations from the state.
The report recommends the implementation of various safety measures, such as independent project reviews, explosion-proof shielding, monitoring through cameras and sensors, and regular training for the fire department. It also suggests prohibiting the placement of BESS in close proximity to flammable substances.
Governor Kathy Hochul of New York State supports the development of energy storage systems and claims that meeting the Working Group’s recommendations ensures the security of the state’s energy transformation process. The recommendations are open for comments until March 5, 2024, through the NYSERDA portal.
Activists also raise concerns regarding the safety and efficiency of BESS, particularly regarding soil and water testing around fire sites. They argue that they have not received complete research results and demand more precise monitoring of the environmental impact of BESS systems.
The introduction of new regulations may impact the future of energy storage projects in New York State. It is crucial to implement adequate safety measures that protect both the community and the environment.
Key points addressed in the article include:
1. A moratorium on the construction of new Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) in Southold and Southampton cities in New York State.
2. Proposed amendments to fire safety regulations aimed at minimizing the risk of fires in BESS facilities.
3. Planned extension of the moratorium in Southampton City while waiting for recommendations from the fire safety task force and the development of detailed regulations regarding BESS locations.
4. Recommendations for safety measures in BESS facilities, such as project reviews, explosion-proof shielding, monitoring through cameras and sensors, and training for the fire department.
5. Activists’ concerns regarding the safety and efficiency of BESS systems and the need for thorough monitoring of the environmental impact.
Selected terms and abbreviations used in the article:
– BESS: Battery Energy Storage Systems – electrical energy storage systems based on batteries.
– Inter-Agency Fire Safety Working Group: a task force that provides recommendations for fire prevention.
– NYSERDA: New York State Energy Research and Development Authority – an organization involved in energy research and development in New York State.
Suggested related links:
– Grid Energy Storage
– New York State Energy Research and Development Authority
The source of the article is from the blog tvbzorg.com