Energy Storage for Communities & Local Government

A Smarter, Cleaner Grid for Your Community

Battery energy storage systems are key to building a modern, efficient electric grid, making it more resilient while creating cleaner air and healthier communities in the process. New York State’s robust safety standards and oversight help ensure that energy storage systems can be part of a safe, reliable, and affordable energy future for your community.

Energy Storage Regulation and Safety

New York State has some of the most rigorous safety standards for energy storage projects in the country. Larger NYSERDA-supported projects undergo independent third-party review by nationally recognized experts to ensure full compliance with New York’s strict codes and regulations. These reviews provide an added layer of oversight beyond local and state permitting. Projects that do not meet these standards are not eligible for NYSERDA incentives helping to ensure that only safe, high-quality systems are developed in New York communities.

The NYSERDA independent peer reviews and enhanced inspections run parallel to local permitting authority, meaning every community retains local control while benefiting from expert safety checks and the necessary information to make informed decisions regarding responsible local energy storage development.

You can visit the New York State Battery Energy Storage System Guidebook for Local Governments webpage to learn more about energy storage regulations and safety in your community.

New York City has its own unique set of codes and safety standards for energy storage projects, which are often more stringent than those used elsewhere in the State and country due to the city’s density and complexity. The Interagency Fire Safety Working Group (Working Group) brought together experts from across New York, including key architects of FDNY’s unique codes and standards, to review these practices and identify the most effective approaches to incorporate critical elements of those standards into the broader statewide regulatory framework. By learning from New York City’s leading standards and procedures, the group helped strengthen safety protocols across the rest of the State ensuring that all communities benefit from the highest levels of protection and best practices.

On July 25, 2025, New York officially adopted updated energy storage safety codes based on the Working Group’s recommendations, further cementing the State’s commitment to safe deployment.

Energy Storage Resources for Communities & Local Governments

Energy Storage Guidebook

The Energy Storage Guidebook provides information, tools, and step-by-step instructions to support local governments across the State who are managing battery energy storage system development in their communities. The Guidebook provides local officials with in-depth details about local governments’ role in ensuring efficiency, transparency, and safety in their communities.

Access the full Energy Storage Guidebook.

Technical Assistance

NYSERDA partners directly with local governments and first responders to support safe planning and siting of energy storage systems. Through one-on-one engagement, NYSERDA helps communities understand how storage works and how it can be developed safely and effectively. When needed, NYSERDA can also connect local officials with a network of independent experts who provide technical guidance and support to address specific permitting questions or concerns ensuring local decision makers have the tools and confidence to move forward safely.

Contact [email protected] for more information on getting technical assistance for energy storage siting and permitting.