Hanover County Planning Commission approves new battery storage facility amid safety concerns

The Hanover County Board of Supervisors convened on December 11, 2024, to discuss a proposed battery energy storage project, addressing community concerns regarding safety, environmental impact, and property values. The meeting featured a range of speakers, including experts, residents, and representatives from the development team.

The session began with a presentation from Mr. Tiller, who highlighted his extensive background in emergency services and fire protection. He raised concerns about the reliability of fire detection and suppression systems associated with the project, citing a study indicating that 26% of such systems experience issues. He emphasized the potential risks of thermal runaway incidents and the challenges in managing fires related to battery storage systems.

Residents Joan Branch and Charles Mills expressed their opposition to the project, voicing fears about air quality, noise, and the potential for property value declines. Branch specifically mentioned concerns about toxic gases and the precedent the project might set for future developments in the area. Mills compared the project to the proliferation of fast-food chains, suggesting that if successful, it could lead to similar facilities being established throughout the county.

In response, Assistant Chief Hartle provided reassurance regarding fire safety measures and the training planned for emergency responders. He noted that while lithium-ion fires have garnered media attention, they account for only 1% of incidents annually in the context of battery storage systems. Hartle emphasized that the fire department would prioritize community safety and environmental protection in their response strategies.

The developers, represented by Light Shift, defended their project by outlining their compliance with fire codes and the measures taken to ensure safety and quality. They highlighted their partnership with Clean Energy Associates for quality assurance and addressed concerns about the potential for toxic gas emissions, stating that any gases produced would dissipate quickly and not pose a significant risk to the community.

After extensive discussion, the Board moved to approve the project with a condition for a noise study to be conducted after the first phase of operations. The approved noise level was set at 50 decibels at the property line, a compromise reached after deliberation on the potential noise impacts compared to residential developments.

The meeting concluded with a motion to approve the proposed siting agreement for the project, further solidifying the Board's support for the development while acknowledging the community's concerns. The Board's decision reflects a balance between advancing energy infrastructure and addressing local apprehensions about safety and environmental impact.