Bill > H4689

This bill establishes comprehensive regulations for battery storage facilities, focusing on safety, environmental protection, and strategic placement. The legislation creates mandatory buffer zones, requiring battery storage facilities to be located at least 2,000 feet away from populated areas like residential zones, schools, and hospitals, and 3,000 feet from ecologically protected areas such as wetlands and wildlife reserves. The bill requires facilities to submit detailed fire mitigation and emergency response plans to fire services, with special provisions for facilities using volatile battery chemistries like lithium-ion, mandating specific fire suppression systems. Additionally, the bill empowers the Department of Environmental Protection to establish guidelines for preventing groundwater and soil contamination, and grants the department authority to enforce these regulations through significant penalties of up to $50,000 per violation. The State Fire Marshal is also tasked with creating specific safety and fire prevention standards for battery storage facilities, including mandatory inspections and risk assessments. The legislation aims to proactively address potential risks associated with battery storage facilities by implementing strict geographical, safety, and environmental protections, with the regulations taking effect immediately upon passage.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H4689