FAQ

A Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) is a technology designed to store and manage energy for later use. It typically uses rechargeable batteries to store energy from various sources, such as the electrical grid, renewable energy sources like solar or wind power, or other power generation methods. 

• Grid Stabilization: Helping to balance supply and demand, especially with intermittent renewable energy sources.
• Peak Shaving: Reducing energy costs by storing energy during off-peak hours and releasing it during peak demand times.
• Backup Power: Providing backup power during outages.
• Frequency Regulation: Maintaining the stability of the electrical grid by responding quickly to changes in demand.

BESS plays a role in modernizing the energy infrastructure, enabling greater integration of renewable energy, and enhancing the resilience and efficiency of power systems.

•    Interim safety measures proposed for BESS projects include requiring a new technical study prepared by a fire protection engineer. This study must outline the fire safety properties of the design, operation and use of BESS projects. Additionally, BESS applicants must disclose any project safety measures that go above and beyond current code requirement. 

•    Another proposed measure is adopting modular designs with enclosures, which minimize the spread of fires, as outlined in the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 855 (2023) guidelines.

On July 17, 2024, the Board of Supervisors instructed staff to create rules for privately initiated Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) projects in unincorporated areas. While this Best Practice Report is one aspect of creating new standards for BESS applicants to follow, Planning & Development Services will be looking to get feedback from the community about including BESS as a land use within the County's Zoning Ordinance. This effort is set to kick off in 2025.  Please sign up for the email notification list to stay updated on this effort.