Ottawa Energy Storage Container Long-Term Order
A city committee passed new regulations Thursday that lay out the ground rules for companies looking to build battery energy storage facilities in Ottawa, but residents are split on whether the new rules go too far — or not far enough. . In October 2023, the Independent Electricity Systems Operator (IESO) put out a call for proposals for new Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). Through this competitive procurement process, known as the Long-term 1 Request for Proposals (LT1 RFP), the province looked to procure year-round capacity. . Ottawa BESS 2 is a proposed up to 75 Mega-Watt (“MW”) lithium-ion Battery Energy Storage System (“BESS”) that will be located at 2393 8th Line Road, Ottawa, ON, K0A 2P0. Its development preceeded the LT1 RfP. [PDF Version]FAQs about Ottawa Energy Storage Container Long-Term Order
Does Ottawa have a battery energy storage plan?
In 2025, the City of Ottawa established official plan and zoning provisions for battery energy storage uses in accordance with new Official Plan policy. BESS is an emerging technology using batteries and associated equipment to store excess energy from the electrical grid, which can then discharge energy in periods of high demand.
Is Ottawa looking at regulatory changes around battery energy storage facilities?
Ottawa is looking at regulatory changes around these types of facilities. (Ross D. Franklin/The Associated Press) UPDATED: City councillors unanimously approved the new rules for battery energy storage facilities at their meeting on Feb. 12, 2025.
Can a battery facility be built in Ottawa?
According to the new rules, companies looking to build a battery facility will have to show Ottawa Fire Services (OFS) that effective fire and safety risk management has been incorporated into the design. Companies will be required to install fire prevention and suppression systems, and provide OFS with site-specific training.
