Brighton residents protest new battery storage project citing safety and health risks

The Boston City Council convened on March 25, 2025, to discuss pressing concerns surrounding the proposed battery energy storage system (BESS) facility at 35 Electric Avenue in Brighton. Residents voiced strong opposition, citing safety risks, environmental justice issues, and the facility's proximity to densely populated neighborhoods.

Community activist John, an East Boston resident, highlighted the importance of safety protocols in energy projects, emphasizing that the costs associated with such facilities ultimately fall on local ratepayers. He urged the council to ensure that safety measures are prioritized in the planning stages, reflecting the community's concerns about potential hazards.

Mary LaRossi, co-chair of the Leo Birmingham Parkway Advisory Board, expressed her board's opposition to the project, arguing that it conflicts with efforts to enhance local green spaces. She raised alarms about fire safety and public health risks associated with lithium-ion batteries, which have been linked to fires and toxic gas releases. LaRossi stressed that the facility's location near residential developments poses unacceptable risks to families, particularly children.

Benny Upton, a firefighter and Brighton resident, echoed these concerns, referencing a recent fire incident at a similar facility in California that led to mass evacuations and health issues for nearby residents. He called for a moratorium on the project until comprehensive safety regulations are established, emphasizing that the current setback requirements are insufficient to protect the community.

Other residents, including Rosemary Taylor and Ellen McCrave, shared personal stories about their fears regarding property values, emergency evacuations, and the potential for toxic exposure. They argued that the facility's placement in a residential area is inappropriate and that the city must prioritize community safety over development interests.

Matthew Sager and Kevin Caraghi urged the council to implement stricter setback requirements and a thorough review process for BESS projects, advocating for a pause on all proposals until adequate safety measures are in place. They emphasized the need for independent analyses of fire safety and public health concerns, which they feel have been inadequately addressed in the current planning process.

The meeting underscored a growing demand for transparency and community involvement in decisions affecting public safety and environmental justice. As residents continue to voice their concerns, the city council faces pressure to reassess the proposed facility and ensure that any future energy projects prioritize the well-being of Boston's communities.