Yes. Battery energy storage systems contain multiple layers of safety protection, both through advanced software and physical local control.

The "brain" of a battery energy storage system, the Battery Management System (BMS), is responsible for all functionality of the battery energy storage system, including real-time, continuous monitoring of the electrical components and batteries, such as electrical voltages and currents, system temperatures and battery health. The BMS is a safety-first system, programmed to ensure the battery energy storage system will protect itself, and therefore the community, should it detect any fluctuation in data information outside its safety thresholds.

In addition, battery energy storage systems are equipped with their own backup power supply known as Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS). This additional measure ensures communication, system control, and fire suppression systems will remain operational and uninterrupted at all hours of the day. In the event of an emergency, battery energy storage systems are also designed with a localized electrical disconnect switch.

Battery energy storage systems are designed in accordance with, and rigorously tested to, specific standards defined by Underwriters Laboratories (UL), a 3rd party, independent product safety certification organization. In addition to UL, battery energy storage systems are designed in accordance to national electrical codes, fire protection codes, and safety codes, and can also be adapted to comply with both state and local codes and standards. The standards created and defined by UL are continuously reviewed and updated to ensure that safety is the number one priority for all battery energy storage systems.

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Examples of relevant UL standards that this battery energystorage system has been certified to are as follows:

Yes. The system is monitored remotely 24 hours a day. It can be disconnected remotely by the project operator and the utility. In addition, the utility can disconnect the system locally, and local first responders may do so if they choose to receive training.

Local emergency responders are provided with direct contact information for the 24-hour operations team to request immediate assistance if needed.

The project includes a sophisticated grounding system designed to safely redirect energy from a lightning strike away from the battery energy storage system. This grounding design is a standard part of electrical infrastructure and helps prevent damage to equipment.

No. Battery energy storage systems use solid battery cells, similar to those used in consumer electronics such as cell phones. They do not contain liquids that could leak into soil or groundwater.

The project footprint is small—typically less than one-fifth of an acre. Stormwater management is designed to replicate existing drainage patterns so that runoff does not increase beyond current conditions.

No. Periodic vegetation management around the fenced area is handled using hand and mechanical methods without the use of herbicides.

Yes. The battery energy storage systems will be removed from the site and disassembled by qualified personnel. The components are either recycled or repurposed for other electronic equipment.

The system consists of enclosed, shipping-container-sized battery units placed on a concrete pad. Each unit is approximately 9 feet tall, 6 feet wide, and 30 feet long. The perimeter of the site will be enclosed by a fence, or equivalent, and, if desired, additional screening surrounding the area (i.e. vegetation).

The electric grid is interconnected, but this battery is physically located in Cambria and connects to nearby infrastructure. Its first role is supporting the local system, with additional regional benefits that help reduce overall grid stress.

The battery energy storage system will occupy approximately 7,000–8,000 square feet—roughly the size of a tennis court—on a larger parcel totaling approximately 18.6 acres. The remainder of the property will remain unchanged.

The system produces a low level of sound, primarily from cooling equipment. This noise is typically not audible beyond the immediate area of the facility and is not expected to cause disturbance to nearby homes or properties.

Electrical connections are designed to meet utility and safety requirements. Wherever possible, equipment is located underground or designed to minimize visual impact. Specific details are reviewed as part of the permitting process.

The battery energy storage system will charge from the local grid during periods of low demand (i.e. nighttime or early morning) and release the stored energy back during periods of high demand, ultimately creating a stronger, more reliable grid for the local community.

Charging phase:

• When electricity demand is low or energy generation is high, the system stores excess electricity from the grid.
• Electricity is converted from alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC) and stored in the batteries.

Discharging phase:

• During periods of high demand, the system releases stored electricity.
• Stored DC power is converted back to AC and supplied to the grid to support reliability.

The battery equipment typically comes with performance guarantees of up to 20 years. With regular maintenance and periodic upgrades, the operational life of the facility may be extended.

Adjacent property owners received mailed notices about the proposed project and public meeting. Information was also posted on the Town’s official website.

The project developer, RIC Energy, is headquartered at:

17 State Street, Suite 2320

New York, NY 10004