The Town Board will prohibit the construction of new Tier 2 battery energy storage systems (BESS) within the town limits.
The Town Board based its May 20 decision on a variety of factors, including the nascent stage of BESS technology, particularly lithium-ion batteries, and the documented incidents of fires at several BESS facilities across New York since May 2023.
“Our priorities are our residents and the environment,” said Supervisor Ed Lachterman. “Given the early stage of battery energy storage technology and the recent fires, we have significant concerns with fire suppression best practices, the availability of appropriate emergency response equipment for our local fire departments, and the potential for gas emissions and chemicals to pollute our groundwater.”
The Town Board’s decision came after extensive deliberation and a May 6 public hearing, where residents voiced reservations regarding the safety and environmental impacts of such systems. The Town Board concluded that siting Tier 2 systems in proximity to residential properties or environmentally sensitive areas could lead to substantial harm to residents, damage to properties, and adverse environmental impacts.
The Town Board will monitor technological, safety, and other developments concerning Tier 2 systems. The ban is not necessarily permanent but reflects a cautious approach until further advancements and assurances regarding the safe operation and emergency response for these facilities are established.
Recently, a massive 95-acre, 116 Megawatt Battery Plant that was proposed on the Westchester
Putnam Border in Somers was withdrawn only after tremendous opposition from
the public and community.
