Mount Kisco enacts six-month moratorium on battery energy storage systems to study siting and safety

Mount Kisco’s Village Board unanimously adopted a temporary moratorium on battery energy storage systems (BESS) on Aug. 5, 2024 to allow staff and consultants to study potential impacts and draft zoning regulations.

Mayor J. Michael Cindrich introduced the hearing, describing the moratorium language and the Village’s intent to establish a committee and retain technical review to recommend where and how BESS might be permitted. The Conservation Advisory Council’s John Rhodes expressed support for the proposal, and resident Louis Terlizzi thanked the Board for proposing the moratorium. Trustee Karen B. Schleimer asked for edits to the committee language.

Local Law No. 3 of 2024 establishes a temporary, limited moratorium effective upon adoption and continuing for 180 days, with two possible three-month extensions by unanimous resolution of the Board if necessary. The moratorium prohibits issuance of building permits, special permits, site-plan approvals, variances, certificates of occupancy or similar approvals for BESS during the effective period, except for emergencies. The law provides an administrative appeal process for persons showing financial hardship and contemplates staff-and-consultant review culminating in proposed zoning amendments.

The Board characterized the measure as a temporary step to protect the public interest while technical study and public vetting proceed. Staff were directed to form the review group and report back with recommendations that could lead to amendments to Chapter 110 (Zoning) and other sections of the Village Code.