Bill > S06557

This bill proposes to prohibit the siting and construction of battery energy storage systems (BESS) on Staten Island, with a few limited exceptions. The legislation defines battery energy storage systems in two tiers based on their energy capacity and configuration, with tier one systems being smaller (600 kilowatt hours or less) and tier two systems being larger or more complex. The bill's legislative intent emphasizes concerns about potential public health and safety risks, including air pollution and explosion hazards associated with these systems, particularly when located near residential areas, schools, churches, playgrounds, and small businesses. Under the proposed law, no permits would be issued for BESS installations on Staten Island, except for those in industrial zones and small-scale residential applications. The bill specifically targets battery storage systems using various technologies, such as lithium-ion batteries, and applies to systems of any scale or storage capacity. The legislation would take effect immediately and would apply to any pending siting permit applications at the time of enactment.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S6557