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Planners propose codified standards for utility‑scale battery storage, limit zones and require interdepartmental review
Summary
Staff proposed codified rules for utility‑scale battery energy storage systems (BEST), restricting permitted zones compared with earlier director determinations, retaining board use‑permit review and circulating projects to fire and environmental departments; commissioners raised state preemption (AB 205) and future technology (solid‑state batteries) concerns.
County planners told the commission they are codifying standards for utility‑scale battery energy storage systems (BEST) to clarify how such facilities will be regulated.
Matthew Jamomi said the new classification targets primary BEST facilities—installations where storage and sale of electricity is the principal use—not small accessory behind‑the‑meter batteries. Staff proposed permitting BEST in selected zones (agricultural, interim agricultural, light industrial, heavy industrial) and retaining a board use permit for primary BEST projects. Jamomi noted past planning director determinations treated BEST like commercial solar, but the new proposal removes some zones from eligibility to reduce proximity to residential areas.
Staff emphasized interdepartmental review; BEST projects will be distributed to fire, environmental management and other departments for comment because of documented safety issues in other jurisdictions (fires/explosions). Commissioners asked whether state law (AB 205) could allow very large projects to opt into California Energy Commission review and thus limit local controls; staff acknowledged that projects above certain size thresholds can be under state jurisdiction and that rules will need to remain responsive as technology (e.g., solid‑state batteries) evolves.
If adopted, the changes will clarify local expectations for siting and review of utility‑scale battery storage while recognizing state permitting pathways and evolving battery technologies.
