Concerns Mount Over Battery Storage Facility Near Queens Elementary School
Residents of South Ozone Park, Queens, are voicing growing anxieties regarding a proposed lithium-ion battery energy storage system (BESS) slated for construction across from P.S. 128/P255Q elementary school. The debate highlights a broader national conversation about the safety and appropriate placement of these facilities, which are becoming increasingly common as part of the transition to renewable energy.
On March 22nd, New York State Senator Joseph Addabbo Jr. Met with constituents at a “Java with Joe” event held at Let’s Do Brunch coffee shop to discuss these concerns. Residents expressed fears about potential fires, hazardous chemical exposure, and a perceived lack of transparency from the developer, NineDot Energy [3].
Safety Concerns and Legislative Response
Senator Addabbo has been a vocal advocate for prioritizing public safety in the siting of BESS facilities. He shared serious concerns about the proximity of large-scale battery storage facilities to schools and residential neighborhoods as early as February 20, 2026 [2]. He understands the concerns that you cannot market something that incorporates the words “Potential Hazard” [1].
In response to constituent concerns, Senator Addabbo has introduced Senate Bill S7197B. The bill directs the New York Department of Public Service to establish rules and regulations regarding setback requirements for BESS facilities [4]. Specifically, it requires minimum setbacks of 750 feet from residential property and 300 feet from residential property in cities with a population of one million or more [1]. The bill likewise mandates public hearings before the approval of permits for such systems [4].
Developer Response and Community Opposition
NineDot Energy has faced criticism for its lack of engagement with the community. Residents report that the developer has refused to hold public meetings, instead offering only one-on-one conversations and website FAQs [3]. This approach has fueled distrust, with residents accusing NineDot of deliberately avoiding transparent dialogue about safety concerns [3].
Residents have organized protests, citing fire risks, toxic chemical concerns, and the potential for the state to override local zoning protections [3]. Concerns center around the possibility of unique and demanding-to-extinguish fires, the need for evacuation plans, and the potential release of toxic fumes [1].
National Context and Safety Standards
The situation in Queens reflects a growing national debate about the safety of BESS facilities. Officials in Kendall County, Texas, have utilized the 2021 International Fire Code and the 2024 NFPA 855 to discourage similar facilities by enforcing stringent safety standards [1]. While NYC currently operates 30 battery storage facilities without reported incidents [3], community fears are based on national precedents involving outdated technology and the potential for catastrophic fires [3].
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