This is incorrect. The BESS is outside the Covington City boundaries and is currently being permitted through the state process, so King County will not have a regulatory role.
Sarah Perry's ordinance proposition does not consider the placement of these facilities in urban environments. Proximity to schools and medical facilities needs to be addressed.
NOTICE OF CITY COUNCIL PUBLIC HEARING JUNE 11 RE MORATORIUM
https://covingtonwa.gov/newsdetail_T1_R2618.php
The public hearing will take place at the city council’s regular meeting on Tuesday, June 11, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. In compliance with state law, city council special and regular meetings will be held in a hybrid format with in-person, telephonic, and virtual options for public viewing and participation.
Join In Person:
Covington City Hall, Council Chambers, 16720 SE 271st Street, Covington, WA 98042
Join Online:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89002439681?pwd=VXBiWmVnSXdYVDJMbEJiVGg2WlRhZz09
Passcode: CovCouncil
Join by Phone:
253-215-8782
Webinar ID: 890 0243 9681
Passcode: 5108335955
The purpose of this public hearing is for the city council to receive comments from the public, both written and oral, regarding the proposed twelve-month moratorium on the acceptance, processing and/or approval of applications for building and land development permits and related land use decisions for battery energy storage.
All persons desiring to comment may do so in writing to Krista Bates, City Clerk, at 16720 SE 271st Street, Suite 100, Covington, Washington, 98042 (please be sure to include your name and mailing address), or by email to kbates@covingtonwa.gov, or by testifying at the public hearing on June 11, 2024.
Covington, Washington adopting a temporary 12-month BESS moratorium
An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Covington, Washington, relating to adopting a temporary 12-month moratorium on the acceptance, processing, and/or approval of applications for building and land development permits and related land use decisions for battery energy storage system facilities proposed to be located in any zone within the City of Covington; scheduling a public hearing; recognizing that a work plan will be established; adopting findings of fact; providing for severability; declaring an emergency; and establishing an immediate effective date.
Passed by the City Council of Covington, Washington, at the City Council meeting of May 14, 2024 to be in full effect immediately, as provided by law. A summary of this ordinance may be published in lieu of publishing the ordinance in its entirety. The full text of the ordinance will be mailed upon request.
https://www.covingtonwa.gov/newsdetail_T1_R2620.php
What is the difference between a Utility and a BESS?
A utility and a BESS (Battery Energy Storage System) are related but distinct parts of the electricity ecosystem:
Utility:
A company that transmits and distributes electricity to consumers.
Think of it as the pipeline that delivers electricity from power plants to your home.
Utilities are responsible for ensuring a reliable flow of electricity, managing grid stability, and customer service.
They are typically regulated by government agencies to ensure fair pricing and service quality.
BESS (Battery Energy Storage System):
A system that stores electrical energy for later use.
It's like a giant rechargeable battery for the power grid.
BESS can be used for various purposes, such as storing excess renewable energy (like solar or wind) for use during peak demand times, or providing backup power during outages.
BESS are typically owned and operated by utilities themselves, or by independent companies that sell their services to utilities.
Regulation:
Utilities are heavily regulated to ensure they operate in the public interest. This includes regulations on pricing, service standards, and safety.
BESS regulations are still evolving as the technology matures. In some cases, BESS may be regulated similarly to power plants, while in others they may be treated more like a service depending upon their size.
In short:
A utility is the company that delivers your electricity.
A BESS is a tool that utilities can use to manage the flow of electricity on the grid.
Both play a crucial role in ensuring a reliable and efficient electricity system, but they are subject to different levels of regulation.
The Kingfisher Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) is a proposed project that would be located in unincorporated King County, next to Mattson Middle School. Since it is located just over the border from the City of Covington, it will be permitted by King County. The developer, Tenaska, is applying for a Critical Area Alterations Exception. If King County approves this Application, we will need everyone of you to respond during the Appeal Process! Please check back frequently for updates on the Application Process.
King County Council member Sarah Perry introduced a proposal that would establish regulations around zoning, safety, and insurance requirements for BESS.
Legislation details:
King County Council Member Regan Dunn Statement:
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/WAKING/bulletins/371f72a
King County Local Services and Land Use Committee MEETING -
RECORDED under Articles and links.
Covington City Hall Tenaska Presentation 6/13 2023
Covington City's Opposition Letter. Approved from the City Hall Meeting on 7/11/2023
BESS Siting & Safety: Workshop from Washington State Dept of Commerce - 11/16 2022
King County Local Services and Land Use Committee Meeting 08 22
King County Local Services and Land Use Committee Meeting 09 26
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