American Clean Power Association publishes guidance framework for energy storage siting, permitting
In an effort to promote best-in-class safety measures for energy storage technology systems, the American Clean Power Association (ACP) recently published a model ordinance framework with guidance built for state and local governments.
“The energy storage industry has consistently been on the forefront of promoting and demonstrating excellence in safety and reliability,” Frank Macchiarola, chief policy officer of ACP, said. “These efforts build upon that work and represent the most expansive and meaningful efforts to date in promoting the adoption of the latest national safety standards, as well as the development of rigorous and reasonable rules for the development and operation of battery energy storage resources. These resources ensure communities can responsibly facilitate the deployment of energy storage and benefit from the technology’s unique ability to boost grid reliability and lower energy costs.”
Built on the latest safety standards, as well as requirements and guidance created by the National Fire Protection Association safety standard, ACP’s framework focused on those people and institutions creating siting and permitting rules related to the development and operation of utility- scale battery energy storage systems. Policy recommendations were a major part of this, for areas such as permitting procedures, land use and zoning, decommissioning and more.
The recommendations also emphasized commitment to coordination between energy storage developers and fire officials, to promote safe development and rollout alike.
Recommendations and considerations within the framework drew from areas such as the national fire safety standards, guidance from national energy labs and existing state laws and local regulations.
