Bill > A06996

This bill prohibits the siting and construction of battery energy storage systems (BESS) in New York's Assembly District 64, with specific provisions and definitions. The bill defines two tiers of battery energy storage systems based on their energy capacity: tier one systems have less than or equal to 600 kilowatt hours and use a single storage technology, while tier two systems have more than 600 kilowatt hours or use multiple storage technologies. The legislation broadly bans the installation of BESS of any scale or storage capacity in the district, with only two exceptions: systems located in industrial zones and small-scale residential applications. The bill's legislative intent emphasizes protecting public health and safety, citing concerns about potential air pollution and explosion risks near homes, schools, churches, playgrounds, and small businesses. The prohibition is not permanent; it is set to expire on December 31, 2034, and will apply to all pending siting permit applications from the bill's effective date. The legislation aims to provide a temporary moratorium on battery energy storage system developments in the specified assembly district.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A6996