Assemblyman Sam Pirozzolo has announced that the New York State Public Service Commission (PSC) has denied Hecate Grid Swiftsure LLC’s request for an extension to file critical project documents. The decision comes after Pirozzolo and others sent a letter urging the PSC to reject Hecate Grid’s request, which was submitted more than 200 days late.
Pirozzolo’s letter, co-authored with Sen. Andrew Lanza, Assemblyman Mike Reilly, and Council Member David Carr, emphasized the importance of upholding safety, transparency, and accountability in Staten Island. They opposed Hecate Grid’s proposed six-month extension for submitting its decommissioning plan and cost estimate for a 650 megawatt battery energy storage system (BESS) in Travis.
“This decision by the secretary is an important win for the people of Staten Island and for common sense,” stated Pirozzolo. He expressed concerns about Hecate Grid’s adherence to deadlines and called for the project’s termination. The Swiftsure Energy Storage Project would be one of the largest battery storage facilities in the U.S., estimated at $300 million, with operations expected to begin in winter 2027.
Despite this development, Pirozzolo warned that Hecate Grid might seek approval directly from PSC commissioners. He plans to meet with PSC leadership in Albany to prevent further extensions.
“We cannot afford to let our guard down,” said Pirozzolo. “This victory shows what our community can achieve when we stand together.”
Hecate Grid had applied for a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN) from the PSC in 2024, promising timely compliance with safeguards like submitting a decommissioning plan. However, their failure to meet deadlines raised doubts about their management capabilities.
Community opposition has been strong due to environmental hazards and public safety risks associated with large-scale BESS facilities. Concerns have grown following incidents at similar facilities in New York and California.
