Bringing Reliable Energy to New York State
Bassett Energy Storage is a 79.9-megawatt (MW) battery energy storage project proposed in the Town of Howard, Steuben County. By charging when power is plentiful and discharging when New Yorkers need it most, the project helps stabilize the grid and enhance reliability during heat waves and winter demand peaks.
Project Details
Bassett Energy Storage is located in the Town of Howard, Steuben County, New York. The project is located immediately adjacent to the Spencer Hill Substation, which serves the Howard Wind facility.
Size: 79.9 MW / 319.6 MWh
Footprint: ~10-acres
Target Commercial Operation Date: Summer 2030
Technology: Lithium-Ion Battery
Community benefits: Construction jobs, local tax revenue, and a stronger local grid with fewer power interruptions.
Concept Plan for Bassett Energy Storage:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Battery Energy Storage System?
A Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) is a technology that stores electricity in batteries for use at a later time. Like a grain silo, but for electrons. When there is surplus electricity (like solar panels generating at noon or wind turbines spinning hard overnight), the BESS is filled with electrons. When demand peaks (like evenings when everyone is home cooking and running appliances), the BESS discharges the stored electrons back onto the grid. In addition to shifting power over time, a BESS also:
- Stabilizes the grid: Provides fast response for frequency regulation, voltage support, and reserves – all needed 24/7 for the grid to operate.
- Increases renewable energy integration: Helps balance variable generation from wind and solar.
- Improves reliability: Offers backup power during outages.
- Defers infrastructure upgrades: Reduces stress on transmission and distribution systems.
What will the project look like?
The Bassett project will utilize lithium-ion batteries housed in fireproof containers. A typical container can house over 5 MWh of stored energy and is 20 feet long, 9.5 feet high and 8 feet wide. At 79.9 MW, the Bassett project will include approximately 26 to 30 containers. The containers, and the equipment that connects them to the electric grid, will all be located within a secure fence with signage, lighting, and contact information that meets local regulations.
How will this project impact my community?
Energy storage projects bring needed resilience to the electric grid, support existing electric generation facilities, and provide significant investments in their host community. While they do not create significant employment post-construction, they also do not require any expansion of local services. The Bassett project represents > $120,000,000 in capital investment in the Town of Howard, the local school district, and Steuben County.
How safe are Battery Energy Storage Systems?
Most batteries house their cells in flame-retardant containers. Our projects will follow national and local standards of safety, such as NFPA 855. NFPA 855 provides mandatory requirements for design, installation, commissioning, operation, maintenance and decommissioning of energy storage facilities. The safety of BESS facilities has improved substantially over the past several years, with current designs significantly limiting any impact in the unlikely event of failure. EIPS is committed to working with local EMS and Fire Departments to ensure the latest safety protocols are discussed and implemented, and training will be provided before the start of construction.
What is the Noise Level of the Battery Energy Storage System?
The sound from a facility will be about 70 dB at ~3 feet during operation. HVAC are the main source of noise.
During the construction period, normal construction sounds and vibrations can be expected. Construction activity will be limited to daylight hours.