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The Town of Ulster is set to review Terra-Gen's proposed lithium-ion battery plant, with a focus on fire suppression measures. The environmental reviews are scheduled to begin on Thursday (February 5). The plant, planned for the former John A. Coleman Catholic High School site, would house 300 industrial lithium-ion batteries.
Ulster Hose Co. No. 1 Chairman Clay Harshberger expressed concerns about the lack of details from Terra-Gen regarding fire suppression equipment and training. He noted that it has been challenging to get necessary information from the California-based company. Harshberger has been reviewing actions taken by firefighters nationwide to prepare for potential incidents if the project is approved.
According to the Daily Freeman, Terra-Gen Vice President Mark Turner stated that the company has identified a comprehensive, code-compliant fire-protection approach. This includes early detection, continuous monitoring, and fire-suppression systems designed specifically for lithium-ion technology.
The state Energy Research and Development Authority will conduct testing to determine if Terra-Gen has selected the best technology for the containers. The project is part of Governor Kathy Hochul's initiative to build 24 such facilities across New York. However, the project has faced opposition, with neighboring Hurley imposing a six-month moratorium on large-scale battery energy storage systems.
The Ulster Town Board issued a positive declaration under the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA), triggering a full environmental review. The board plans to amend the October 2025 declaration to include a request for consulting firm LaBella to produce a scoping document based on Terra-Gen’s environmental assessment form and public comments.
The board will hold a 60-day public review process, including a public hearing on the scoping document. Town Supervisor James Quigley emphasized the importance of public involvement in the review process.