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Yonkers extends moratorium on battery energy storage systems while city seeks expert review
Summary
The council unanimously extended a temporary moratorium on siting battery energy storage systems in Yonkers through Oct. 31, 2025, saying the pause allows time for consultants and the fire department to evaluate safety and other impacts.
The Yonkers City Council voted unanimously to extend a temporary moratorium on battery energy storage systems (BESS) in the city until Oct. 31, 2025, to allow for further study and expert review.
Minority Leader Rita Breen said the council had already consulted the fire department and sought an RFP for outside experts and that, "Personally, I don't think it's safe, but I... I'm not an expert," explaining why the moratorium should remain in place until professional analysis is complete.
Council members said they had met with the Homefield Homeowners Association, which opposed siting BESS facilities in its neighborhood, and that the council wanted a formal consultant report before allowing such facilities in more densely populated urban areas. Councilman Morante said the mayor had spoken with residents near the proposed Sawmill River Road site and had emphasized following stepwise review to avoid later legal or safety problems.
The council recorded the extension of the moratorium by a recorded vote of 6–0. The ordinance extends a temporary ban first enacted in January 2025 and continues it through Oct. 31, 2025, to complete the stated review objectives.
