WEST SENECA, N.Y. — The Town of West Seneca is once again pumping the brakes on plans to allow battery energy storage systems, extending a temporary ban on the technology while neighbors raise concerns about safety and environmental risks.
At a town board meeting this week, officials voted to extend a moratorium on the devices until October 31, pushing off any final decision for at least another two months.
Battery energy storage systems — essentially large, rechargeable batteries — store electricity that can later be used to power homes and businesses. They can also provide backup electricity during outages and are seen as a key step in helping New York State meet its renewable energy goals. Tesla’s Powerwall is an example…