Southtowns Record

Local Law 1-2026

Government
Town of Wales
Kind
Other
Topics
Energy and data center siting, Moratoriums, Zoning and land use

Original document

Text

TOWN OF WALES
  Intro Local Law 7-2025
  Local Law 1- 2026

  A local law establishing a 6-month moratorium on Battery Energy Storage Systems
  facilities in the Town of Wales.

SECTION I. LEGISLATIVE FINDINGS AND INTENT The Town Board finds that it is in the best
interest of the Town of Wales to enact a moratorium on any new Battery Energy Storage
Systems Facilities, which consist of rows of rechargeable batteries housed in self-
contained, interconnected storage units. The Town Board recognizes the potential impact
of Battery Energy Storage Systems Facilities on the Town’s infrastructure, environment, and
community character. The Town of Wales is committed to ensuring the health, safety, and
welfare of its residents, and to the proper regulation of land uses within the Town of Wales.
The Town Board has determined that it would be prudent to temporarily pause
consideration of Battery Energy Storage Systems Facilities within the Town of Wales. Such a
pause will provide sufficient time to study and address any concerns, including, but not
limited to, zoning, environmental impacts, public safety, and economic implications
resulting from Battery Energy Storage Systems Facilities.

SECTION II. SCOPE OF CONTROL For a period of 6-months from the effective date of this
ordinance, no applications for Battery Energy Storage Systems Facilities shall be accepted
by any board with appropriate authority in the Town, including the Town Board, Planning
Board, and Zoning Board of Appeals.

SECTION III. FECTIVE DATE This law shall take effect immediately as provided by the law,
upon filing with the Secretary of State and shall remain in force and effect for a period of
6-month moratorium. A 6-month end of extension is available at the end of the
moratorium.

February 3, 2026