A proposed Battery Energy Storage System for Belleville could means millions of dollars in revenue for the city over a 20-year span.
Eliane Chouinard and other representatives from FirstLight Power made a deputation to council on Monday.
The clean-power producer aims to decarbonize the grid using renewable energy like solar, wind, and hydro to eliminate greenhouse gases and support the communities they work with.
It has partnerships in multiple projects across Canada and the U.S.
A Battery Energy Storage System does not produce power but uses lithium-ion batteries to store excess power in times of high production which can then be pushed back onto the grid in times of low production and/or high demand.
A few years ago, FirstLight originally proposed a 250-450 megawatt project but is now proposing two smaller projects to conform with Hydro One setback requirements.
Belleville South is a 40-megawatt project while a 110-megawatt plan is suggested for Belleville North.
Both would be contracted for 20 years with options to extend.
The company has met with the mayor, planners and the fire department.
Benefits for the municipality would come from a Community Benefit Fund monetary payment of $1,000 to $1,500 per megawatt per year.
A portion of the per-megawatt payment would go to the city’s fire department for specialized equipment, training and anything they need to respond to emergencies involving the system.
The rest can be used for city projects and initiatives.
It could mean as much as $4.5 million for the city over the 20-year lifespan.
A Municipal Support Resolution is required before the company can submit projects for approval from the Independent Electricity System Operator.
It is simply an indication from a municipality that they are aware of the project and are generally supportive.
If the bid is picked by the IESO, then FirstLight can move forward with the full permitting and engagement process.
The city made no decisions last night and simply received the deputation from FirstLight Power.
