Safety Concerns Raised for Proposed Battery Storage in Vergennes
Residents of Vergennes are opposing a battery energy storage project proposed by Lightshift Energy, citing safety risks. The facility, to be located at 99 Panton Road, aims to reduce grid strain but faces local apprehensions about proximity to homes.
Theia Market Signal Identification - AI AssistedLightshift Energy has submitted a letter of intent to the Vermont Public Utility Commission for a battery storage facility at 99 Panton Road in Vergennes. The project intends to use lithium-ion batteries in shipping container-style units for energy storage, aimed at alleviating demand on the electrical grid.
However, local residents, including Carrie Hathaway, have expressed safety concerns due to the site's proximity to residential areas. Hathaway has initiated a petition against the project, highlighting risks associated with lithium-ion batteries, such as fire hazards and toxicity.
Despite these concerns, co-founder Michael Herbert asserts that the site is appropriately zoned for industrial use. The project is exempt from local regulatory review, as noted by Vergennes Zoning Administrator David Austin. A public hearing is scheduled for June 3 to address community concerns.
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