Placing large lithium-ion batteries close to residential areas and gas stations is dangerously risky.

New York City seems conflicted about lithium-ion batteries.

On one hand, in response to the 733 lithium-ion battery e-bike and scooter fires in the five boroughs since 2019, political leaders launched an initiative to ban these vehicles from apartment lobbies.

The battery packs powering these devices are around 18 inches long and 6 inches wide, prone to catching fire and causing property damage and loss of lives.

On the other hand, the City Council approved the City of Yes for Carbon Neutrality, allowing for lithium-ion Battery Energy Storage Systems to be expanded.

Now, the city is placing huge 40-foot-long lithium-ion batteries in Staten Island, close to residential areas and even gas stations.

If smaller lithium-ion batteries are considered unsafe indoors, how can larger ones be deemed safe next to homes?

These facilities are being constructed throughout the city with massive battery containers that are more dangerous than those powering e-scooters.

Staten Island alone has 38 proposed BESS facilities, many near homes and gas stations.

Unfortunately, Staten Island, with only 6% of the city’s population, is getting almost 50% of planned BESS units.

The batteries in these storage systems are as dangerous as those in e-bikes.

They are susceptible to many triggers that can cause fires, making them a severe hazard when located close to homes.

Furthermore, these fires are hard to extinguish and release harmful toxins into the air.

Neighborhood evacuations may be necessary, and firefighters face risks battling the flames and toxic fumes.

All for the pursuit of “carbon neutrality.”

These risks have been seen across the country, with BESS units catching fire in various locations.

Past incidents of unsafe energy storage technologies in Staten Island should serve as a warning against current practices.

City leaders must reconsider allowing these dangerous facilities in residential areas before another tragedy occurs.

Until safety can be guaranteed and quick fire response assured, lithium-ion energy storage units should not be permitted in residential zones.

The city’s pursuit of carbon neutrality should not come at the cost of public safety.

Vito Fossella is Staten Island Borough President.