On February 24, North Glengarry council unanimously approved the rezoning of a property along Skye Road near Dunvegan. The approximately 15.07-acre property runs parallel to Highway 417 and is strategically located 120 metres from the existing Hydro-One St-Isidore Transformer Station.
The North Glengarry BESS (Battery Energy Storage System) Inc. plan to rezone the property from general agricultural to a general agricultural special exception was presented to council in a public planning session before the council meeting. Rezoning will allow for the installation of the 16.3-Megawatt storage facility, which will be used to provide greater electricity system reliability in the region.
A report to council explained that the BESS is designed to store energy for later use, typically to manage fluctuations in electricity demand and supply. The system captures energy produced at one time that can be used at a later point when needed.
It will additionally feed electricity back into the existing grid during peak times, reducing strain on the grid and the output required from major power plants.
Council was informed that the project would contribute to cleaner air quality and reduce emissions at no cost to the township. The BESS would be shielded by coniferous trees and shrubs on the North, East, and West portions of the site to reduce potential noise.
Im glad there was a noise study done there. Did any of the property owners beside the site object or have concerns? Deputy Mayor Carma Williams inquired.
Planning staff told council that no concerns were brought forward about noise and that the property is not subject to any constraints related to natural hazards, significant woodlands, natural heritage systems, or source water protection.
Council will receive a project timeline at a later date.
