Report on Battery Energy Storage Systems and Community Concerns in Western Massachusetts

Introduction

This report addresses the recent discourse surrounding battery energy storage systems (BESS) as presented in a June 22 column by Joe Curtatone, former mayor of Somerville. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding local community needs and concerns, particularly in western Massachusetts, while aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), notably SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 15 (Life on Land).

Context and Community Credibility

Joe Curtatone’s column aimed to establish credibility by referencing his experience as mayor of Somerville and advocating for renewable energy and battery storage as affordable choices for families. However, the analysis reveals that the unique characteristics and concerns of western Massachusetts communities were not adequately considered, leading to inaccuracies and misunderstandings.

Key Issues with Lithium-Ion Battery Storage Technology

1. Climate Crisis and Energy Storage Necessity
   • Recognition of the urgent climate crisis aligns with SDG 13 (Climate Action).
   • Energy storage is essential for renewable energy integration, supporting SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy).
2. Safety and Environmental Risks of Lithium-Ion Batteries
   • Industry experts acknowledge risks of lithium-ion battery fires, including fire hazards and environmental contamination.
   • Notable incidents include large-scale fires in California (Moss Landing) and New York in 2023 and 2024.
   • These risks challenge the readiness of current battery storage technology for widespread deployment.

Community-Specific Concerns in Western Massachusetts

Western Massachusetts communities differ significantly from Somerville in infrastructure and environmental context, impacting the suitability of BESS siting:

• Water Supply Differences
  • Many rural towns rely on private wells rather than municipal water systems.
  • Large volumes of water are required to contain BESS fires, which is problematic without municipal water access.
• Fire Management Challenges
  • Lithium-ion battery fires cannot be fully extinguished with water; they often burn for days.
  • Forested hilltowns face increased risks of forest and property fires due to prolonged burning.
• Water Contamination Risks
  • Use of water on battery fires releases toxic chemicals into soil and groundwater.
  • Communities dependent on wells, aquifers, or reservoirs for drinking water face irreversible contamination risks.
  • This concern directly relates to SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) and SDG 15 (Life on Land).

Community Advocacy and Public Safety

1. Respect for Local Voices
   • Claims that community opposition is driven by “dark money” are unfounded and disrespectful.
   • Local advocates are motivated by genuine public safety concerns and environmental stewardship.
2. Commitment to Sustainable Development
   • Community members invest significant time in research, education, and civic participation to ensure responsible BESS siting.
   • These efforts support SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) by promoting resilient and safe energy infrastructure.

Path Forward: Regulatory Collaboration and Safe Siting

• Communities are actively collaborating with state agencies to establish safe and effective siting regulations for energy storage under the Clean Energy Law.
• This approach balances the urgent need for clean energy with the protection of public health, safety, and environmental integrity.
• Such regulatory frameworks advance SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), and SDG 13 (Climate Action).

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the transition to renewable energy and energy storage is critical for addressing climate change, it must be pursued with careful consideration of local community characteristics and environmental risks. The concerns raised by western Massachusetts communities highlight the need for technology readiness, public safety, and environmental protection, all integral to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

Author Information

Michael DeChiara is Chair of the Shutesbury Energy and Climate Action Committee and a member of the Shutesbury Planning Board.

Analysis of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Targets, and Indicators in the Article

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

1. SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
   • The article discusses battery energy storage systems (BESS) as part of renewable energy solutions and clean energy deployment.
2. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
   • Concerns about siting of energy storage systems in communities, especially rural towns without municipal water, relate to sustainable urban and community planning.
3. SDG 13: Climate Action
   • The article acknowledges the climate crisis and the need for energy storage as part of climate mitigation efforts.
4. SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
   • Risks of water contamination from lithium-ion battery fires affecting drinking water sources are discussed.
5. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • Environmental and health risks from toxic chemicals released by battery fires and water contamination impact community health.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

1. SDG 7 – Target 7.2: Increase substantially the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix.
   • Article supports renewable energy deployment but highlights safety and siting concerns for battery storage.
2. SDG 11 – Target 11.6: Reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including air quality and waste management.
   • Concerns about environmental risks of battery fires and contamination in communities.
3. SDG 13 – Target 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters.
   • Discussion on fire risks and community preparedness related to battery storage systems.
4. SDG 6 – Target 6.3: Improve water quality by reducing pollution, minimizing release of hazardous chemicals.
   • Article highlights risk of toxic chemical contamination of groundwater from battery fires.
5. SDG 3 – Target 3.9: Reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and pollution.
   • Health risks from toxic emissions and contaminated water discussed.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

1. Indicator for SDG 7.2: Proportion of energy from renewable sources.
   • Implied through discussion of renewable energy and battery storage deployment.
2. Indicator for SDG 11.6: Annual mean levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in cities.
   • While not explicitly mentioned, environmental impact from battery fires could affect air quality.
3. Indicator for SDG 13.1: Number of deaths, missing persons and directly affected persons attributed to disasters.
   • Battery fire incidents (Moss Landing, New York) are examples of hazards affecting communities.
4. Indicator for SDG 6.3: Proportion of wastewater safely treated; water quality indicators.
   • Water contamination from toxic chemicals released during battery fires is a relevant measure.
5. Indicator for SDG 3.9: Mortality rate attributed to unsafe water, sanitation and hygiene.
   • Implied through concerns about health impacts from contaminated drinking water.
6. Additional implied indicators:
   • Number of battery energy storage system fires or accidents.
   • Community access to municipal water supply versus private wells.
   • Regulatory progress on safe siting of energy storage systems.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: gazettenet.com