Position Statement – Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)

North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service (NYFRS) recognises the increasing role of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) in supporting the UK’s transition to renewable energy. While NYFRS is not a statutory consultee in the planning process for such developments, the Service remains committed to promoting fire safety and encouraging the application of nationally recognised best practice.

Given our non-statutory status, it is essential that NYFRS maintains a neutral and impartial position in all planning-related matters. As such, NYFRS does not provide consultancy services to developers or planning applicants regarding the specific design of BESS installations.

The Service will engage on request, as part of the recognised planning process, following submission, and only where the local authority planning department is present and actively involved. This approach ensures that any input from NYFRS is delivered within the appropriate planning and regulatory context, and that resources are directed where they offer the greatest public value.

Where such engagement does take place, it will focus exclusively on the interpretation and application of National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) guidance. NYFRS will not offer detailed technical advice or provide commentary on the individual design elements of any proposed development.

Should the local planning authority formally consult NYFRS as part of the planning process, the Service may provide a written representation. This will be limited to promoting general fire safety principles outlined in NFCC guidance and will not constitute regulatory approval, technical endorsement, or acceptance of any design.

This position ensures that NYFRS remains proportionate, consistent, and constructive in its engagement with planning authorities, while upholding its statutory duties and supporting the safe development of energy infrastructure across North Yorkshire and the City of York.