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WCIDA board urges towns be prepared for decommissioning, emergency planning for battery and large energy projects
Summary
Board members and county administration discussed decommissioning risks and emergency-planning needs tied to solar, battery energy storage and other large projects, recommending county-led education for towns and coordination with the Wayne County Fire Commissioner.
Wayne County IDA board members flagged decommissioning and emergency-response concerns as the county considers more solar, battery energy storage and other large developments.
Interim County Administrator Mark Humbert and Chair David Fantuzzo said decommissioning obligations and long-term liabilities could burden small towns if projects fail. "Although they may bring value to the community, it may hinder the community with decommissioning as well," Fantuzzo said in the discussion. Julie DiLella pressed for more emergency planning and infrastructure coordination, specifically naming Wayne County Fire Commissioner Jeremiah Shufelt as a needed partner for battery-storage preparedness.
Pamela Heald asked what role the IDA and county should play in reviewing project details; Fantuzzo characterized the county's responsibility as educating towns on what questions to ask applicants. Director Brian Pincelli said he is reviewing local permitting and code related to battery energy storage systems to share guidance with towns. Board members discussed decommissioning bonds and the IDA's annual reporting practice for proof of decommissioning funds, but stressed that many small municipalities may lack capacity to address a contract breach without county support.
