Energy Storage System 

What is an Energy Storage System (ESS)?

According to the NYC Fire Code definition, an ESS is a rechargeable system for the storage of electrochemical energy, designed as a stationary installation (including mobile systems) and consisting of one or more interconnected storage batteries, capacitors, inverters, and other electrical equipment. A stationary energy storage system is typically used to provide electrical power and includes associated fire protection, explosion mitigation, ventilation and/or exhaust systems. Stationary energy storage systems include the following types of systems:

1. Indoor System: a stationary energy storage system installed inside a building.
   
   
2. Mobile System: a stationary energy storage system mounted on a trailer or otherwise installed for mobile use.
   
   
3. Outdoor System: a stationary energy storage system installed outdoors, including mobile systems and systems installed on a rooftop.

ESS Filing & Submittal

1. Construction Document Approval: All ESS applications must be filed as a ‘GC’ work type with Electric Energy Storage Equipment (EESE) subcategory, and be reviewed under full plan examination. Filing under Professional Certification Program (ProCert) is not permitted. See the Department’s October 27, 2023 Service Notice for details.
   
   
2. OTCR Site-specific Evaluation: Applicant must submit the following documents:
   
   
   1. OTCR2 Application Form with $600.00 processing fee made payable to the NYC Department of Buildings.
   2. OTCR Battery Application Checklist/Spreadsheet
   3. ESS listing
   4. ESS full-scale testing
   5. FDNY Certificate of Approval
   6. Battery Plan Set  (examples attached)
   7. Approved Zoning Plan Set (by DOB plan examiner)
   8. Approved Flood Zone Plan Set (by DOB plan examiner)
   9. FDNY Letter of Conditional Acceptance (as required per FDNY Code and rule)
   10. Commissioning Plan (as required per FDNY Code and rule)