Troy Mayor Proposes Moratorium on Battery Storage Installations to Review Regulations
Troy Mayor Carmella Mantello has proposed a temporary ban on the installation of battery storage systems in the city, aiming to make Troy the first city in the Capital Region to implement such a moratorium. This proposal would initiate a six-month review period to develop local regulations, potentially leading to a full ban.
The proposal requires sponsorship from a member of the all-Democratic Common Council, which has yet to occur. Mantello plans to introduce the proposal by January 22. Concerns over safety and environmental risks, highlighted by recent incidents of battery storage fires, have fueled opposition to these facilities.
The New York State Energy Research & Development Authority has introduced new battery code requirements effective January 1, aiming to enhance safety measures. Local towns like East Greenbush and Schodack have already implemented moratoria on battery storage projects in response to increased proposals driven by state incentives.
