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ZBA grants time extension and OKs updated Megapack units for two shopping-center battery projects
Summary
IPP Solar asked the ZBA for a 12‑month extension and a variance to use newer, higher‑capacity Tesla Megapacks at two shopping centers; the board granted extensions and approvals after applicants agreed to coordinate with the fire district on emergency response and potential cost‑recovery measures.
The Zoning Board granted the applicants additional time and limited variance relief for two shopping‑center energy storage projects after the applicant pledged coordination with local emergency services.
IPP Solar principals told the board they received Planning Board approvals for two sister projects (Greenville and Midway shopping centers) in December 2022 and are now requesting a one‑year extension beyond the original 30‑month build period and a variance to accommodate newer Tesla Megapack units that store more energy than the 6,000‑kWh cap referenced in the model law used by the town.
Company representatives said a multi‑month acquisition of the property owner delayed lease execution and construction; they also noted that newer Megapack 2 units have a different internal design and, according to the applicant, improved safety characteristics compared with earlier models. The applicant said the project footprint and concrete wall design remain unchanged.
Board members raised public‑safety concerns after the Greenville Fire District submitted a letter asking for clarity about emergency response costs and procedures in the event of a battery‑system thermal runaway or other fire. The applicant said it would coordinate a meeting with the fire district, provide a fire‑protection engineer’s review, and had already agreed in writing to work with the district on any cost‑recovery or reimbursement mechanism if the fire district incurs extraordinary expenses responding to an incident.
After discussion, the ZBA treated the actions as Type 2 and approved the extension and variances with standard conditions: all necessary approvals must be filed with the building department, construction must begin within 12 months of the final required approval, and work must conform to approved plans. The board noted the applicant’s offer to coordinate with fire officials and indicated that details of that coordination could proceed administratively between the applicant and the fire district.
