New York Implements Updated Fire Safety Standards for Large-Scale Battery Installations Following Chaumont Blaze

Two years after a catastrophic fire at a large-scale battery storage facility in Chaumont, New York state has introduced new fire safety measures to address growing concerns over the safety of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). The fire, which broke out in July 2023, served as a wake-up call to state fire authorities about the unique risks posed by these facilities.

On July 31, 2025, the New York State Fire Prevention and Building Code Council formally adopted updated regulations aimed at bolstering safety at BESS installations across the state. These revisions come at a time when the demand for large-scale energy storage has surged, driven by the state’s push for cleaner energy sources like solar power and wind, as well as efforts to reduce grid dependence.

New Fire Code Focuses on Swift Response Times and Qualified Personnel

One of the most significant changes in the updated fire code is the requirement for BESS operators to maintain a team of qualified personnel who are specifically trained to handle emergencies related to their facilities. These employees must have a detailed understanding of the specific types of battery storage systems installed at the site. The new code stipulates that a qualified staff member must be available to respond to an emergency alert and be on-site within four hours.

The move is designed to address the critical need for rapid intervention during incidents involving battery storage systems, which can be challenging to manage due to the unique chemical reactions that occur during fires involving lithium-ion batteries. In the Chaumont incident, fire crews struggled to control the blaze, which was complicated by the design and size of the battery storage system, as well as the intense heat generated by the fire.

State officials have emphasized that these changes are vital for the safe expansion of BESS facilities, ensuring that as the state continues to invest in renewable energy solutions, it is also taking the necessary steps to mitigate risks to public safety.

"First Responder training is the most important factor in reducing casualties. These new regulations are a positive step to protect both Firefighters and civilians",

said Bruno Lucarelli, Managing Partner and VP Sales at EV Safety Inc and an known industry safety expert.

A Response to Growing Safety Concerns

The Chaumont blaze underscored the dangers that can accompany large-scale battery storage, as it became clear that these fires are significantly different from traditional blazes. The intense heat from battery fires can cause dangerous thermal runaway reactions, and the unique combination of electrical and chemical hazards makes these incidents difficult for traditional firefighting methods to contain. While the fire at the Chaumont facility was eventually brought under control, it prompted significant concern regarding the safety protocols surrounding battery storage facilities in the state.

The fire, which started in a solar farm’s storage facility, led to large-scale evacuations in the surrounding area and resulted in property damage. The incident brought attention to the urgent need for clear and actionable safety measures for facilities storing thousands of batteries.

In response to the growing concerns, the Fire Prevention and Building Code Council has worked closely with energy storage companies, fire safety experts, and state officials to develop the new regulations. These new guidelines are designed to help prevent fires, but they also focus heavily on improving response times and minimizing the impact when incidents do occur.

Industry Reaction: Support for the New Code

The reaction from both energy storage companies and fire officials has been largely positive, though some concerns have been raised about the logistics of ensuring rapid response times for facilities located in remote or hard-to-reach areas. However, experts agree that having trained, qualified personnel on-site is a critical step in mitigating the risks associated with BESS facilities.

Many companies involved in energy storage have expressed support for the new regulations, recognizing that stricter standards will help improve public safety and build trust with local communities. “We believe these new regulations are an important step in ensuring the long-term sustainability of energy storage technology,” said a spokesperson for one of New York’s leading renewable energy companies. “It’s crucial that we build safe systems that integrate seamlessly with our local communities and emergency services.”

Looking Ahead: A Safer Future for Energy Storage in New York

While the new regulations will officially go into effect on January 1, 2026, they are expected to have immediate impacts on how energy storage companies approach the design and operation of their facilities. Many companies are already working to meet the new fire safety standards ahead of time, with some even investing in new technologies to further reduce risks.

New York’s focus on improving the safety of BESS installations comes at a time when the state is heavily invested in expanding renewable energy resources. With the state’s ambitious goals to reduce carbon emissions and transition to clean energy, ensuring the safety of energy storage systems will be critical in maintaining public confidence and supporting further investments in green technology.

Ultimately, the updates to the fire code are seen as a step toward balancing the need for innovative energy storage solutions with the safety and well-being of New York residents. With stronger regulations in place, the state can continue its push toward a greener, more sustainable future without compromising safety.

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