Battery energy storage systems are an essential component of New York’s clean energy future, but Assemblyman Scott Gray (R-Watertown) says the state must take steps to ensure these facilities are sited responsibly and safely, especially near homes, schools and farms.

At a press conference in Albany today, Gray voiced his support for legislation (A.6955) that would establish statewide siting guidelines and safety standards for battery storage systems. The bill ensures a minimum 1,000-foot setback from residential and agricultural properties, requires financial security for decommissioning and emergency response and emphasizes local community input before project approvals.

“This legislation gives municipalities the tools they need to protect residents, ensure public safety and maintain control over land use decisions,” said Gray. “Battery storage is critical to our energy goals, but it must be developed in a way that respects local concerns and prepares our first responders for potential emergencies.”

Gray was joined by Chaumont Volunteer Fire Department Chief Will Lipczynski, who offered firsthand testimony about a catastrophic battery fire at a solar facility in his Jefferson County community in July of 2023. Due to the lack of training and resources to handle this type of incident, more than 30 departments responded and were there for eight straight days. Nearly a million gallons of water were used, which drained their fuel budget for the entire year, and they had no follow-up training or updated plans from the facility’s operator.

Lipczynski recounted how the event strained local volunteer departments, many of which lack the budget, equipment or specialized knowledge to handle the unique dangers posed by battery storage systems. He emphasized the need for proper training, equipment and local oversight before more such facilities are developed.

The bill, which Assemblyman Gray cosponsors, does the following:

• Requires a 1,000-foot minimum setback from homes, schools and farms;
• Mandates financial security for operators to cover cleanup and decommissioning;
• Requires a public hearing to be held in the community district where a storage site is being proposed
• Restricts zoning for these systems to strictly industrial areas;

“Too often, local governments and volunteer responders are left in the dark,” said Gray. “We cannot expect our volunteer firefighters to absorb the cost and risk of inadequate regulations. This legislation ensures we’re building a clean energy future that doesn’t compromise public safety or local resources.”

Watch the press conference here.