Battery Energy Storage System

The vendor is required to provide consultants for work consisting of preparing, in collaboration with the city, recommendations for appropriate regulations concerning battery energy storage systems (BESS) within the city as described more fully herein.
- The work shall consist of and include, but may not be limited to the following:
1. Review existing conditions within the city and identify the city’s needs and objectives concerning BESS regulation:
• Review and analyze the existing zoning and land use regulations within the city
• Identify potential conflicts, gaps, or barriers in current zoning ordinance that may hinder the implementation of BESS facilities.
• Identify and consider the unique challenges and objectives of the city with respect to BESS implementation and regulation.
• facilitate community outreach and engagement sessions to gather input from stakeholders, including property owners, local businesses, energy developers, and residents.
• Organize public workshops and hearings to present zoning options and gather community feedback.
2. Prepare recommendations for implementing and achieving the city’s needs and objectives related to BESS regulations; recommendations should consider, account for, and include:
• The full lifecycle of BESS, including the installation, operation, maintenance, and decommissioning of BESS;
• The range of types, sizes, and scopes of BESS projects;
• Impact in or on the different zoning districts and land uses within the city;
• Fire safety, chemical release, electrical/energy hazards, noise, and other known or potential negative impacts of BESS on public health, safety, and quality of life;
• BESS regulations implemented in similar municipalities or jurisdictions;
• Mechanisms for implementation, including amendment to the city zoning ordinance, the permitting process, and permit applications; and
• Existing applicable local, state, and federal laws, codes, and regulations, including but not limited to the state environmental quality review act, the state uniform fire prevention and building code, the state energy conservation construction code, the state codes, rules and regulations, and the model law.
3. Prepare and present a final report detailing and explaining findings and recommendations.
4. Perform other similar or related tasks as may be required or requested by the city.
- Contract Period/Term: 1 year
- Questions/Inquires Deadline: March 12, 2025