New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A08378

Introduced
5/13/25  

Caption

Relates to qualified energy storage systems; authorizes energy storage permitting under the office of renewable energy siting and electric transmission.

Impact

The modifications proposed in A08378 are expected to significantly impact the framework of state laws governing energy storage. By providing clear guidelines for permitting, the bill aims to streamline processes and encourage investment in renewable energy projects. Supporters view this as essential for elevating New York's capacity to manage renewable energy production and distribution effectively. However, this shift also implies a need for local governments to adapt their existing regulations to stay in compliance with state requirements, potentially changing how energy initiatives are developed at the local level.

Summary

A08378 aims to amend the public service law and labor law with a focus on qualified energy storage systems. The bill authorizes permitting for energy storage under the Office of Renewable Energy Siting, establishing a more structured framework for integrating larger scale energy storage solutions into New York's electricity infrastructure. This will allow for installations with a capacity of 25,000 kilowatts or more that are interconnected to the state's grid. By enhancing the regulatory environment for energy storage, the bill aligns with New York’s broader goals of achieving a sustainable energy future and supporting the transition to renewable energy sources.

Contention

While generally supported for its goals towards sustainability, A08378 may encounter points of contention, particularly concerning the balance of state versus local regulatory authority in energy projects. Concerns have arisen about local municipalities losing some control over energy siting decisions. Stakeholders worry that a centralized permit process could overlook local considerations and community needs, particularly in densely populated areas. This regulatory power shift is viewed as essential to facilitate large-scale renewable energy initiatives but is also critiqued for potentially undermining local governance.

Companion Bills

NY S05506

Same As Relates to qualified energy storage systems; authorizes energy storage permitting under the office of renewable energy siting and electric transmission.

Previously Filed As

NY S07834

Includes qualified energy storage systems in the major renewable energy development program.

NY S08618

Requires the office of renewable energy siting and electric transmission to establish a mapping, installation and efficiency plan for the purpose of building new electric transmission lines.

NY S06605

Requires community boards to provide public notice of any planned siting and construction of battery energy storage systems and to provide for annual inspections of such battery energy storage systems; defines "battery energy storage systems"; requires operators of such battery energy storage systems to submit to the requirements of community boards regarding notice and inspection requirements.

NY S08617

Directs the state energy planning board to conduct a study on time frames for replacing or upgrading battery energy storage systems at renewable energy facilities in preparation for clean energy storage and distribution across the state.

NY S02716

Provides a municipal renewable energy system siting database for municipalities interested in siting renewable energy systems on available land within their boundaries; allows municipalities to publish their renewable energy goals and facilitate the development of renewable energy systems.

NY A10723

Requires the office of renewable energy siting to develop standards and conditions for the siting of certain large scale renewable energy systems; requires approval of municipalities to such siting plans.

NY A10004

Directs the office of renewable energy siting to develop a procedure to process letters of credit for siting permits under the major renewable energy development program.

NY S04390

Prohibits the siting and construction of battery energy storage systems and related facilities, systems, infrastructure, and substations of any scale and possessing any storage capacity on Staten Island.

NY A07128

Prohibits the siting and construction of battery energy storage systems and related facilities, systems, infrastructure, and substations of any scale and possessing any storage capacity in assembly district 64.

NY S07994

Modifies the definition of renewable energy systems to include systems that generate electricity or energy through biomass located within a military installation.

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