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Frequently Asked & Resident Questions
1. Fires in a LFP-based BESS can occur due to external factors such as physical damage, electrical faults, poor system design or improper installation. Though Evolugen has several BESS's planned, none of these plans have been operationalized. (No installation experience)
We work closely with local firefighting professionals, safety experts, and City officals throughout the development and design of the project to make sure it's built to the highest standard.
Brookfield is a global leader in energy project development, including BESS. We successfully operate BESS facilities across three continents, including North America, with the earliest installation coming online in 2013, with no fire incidents.
2. Sensors for lithium off-gases of the storage system will be monitored from another province.
The most up-to-date technology will be used to maintain and monitor South March BESS in real time, 24/7.
A direct notification system to Ottawa Fire Services and the Evolugen operations team is in place to allow for immediate response to any alerts.
3. As the efficacy of the batteries deplete, more batteries will be added, further increasing the risk of fire.
As battery efficiency slowly decreases over time, modules will be replaced to maintain a safe and reliable energy source.
The current system design is coordinated closely with the Ottawa Fire Services and incorporates any future addition of BESS containers within the existing project footprint.
4. Proximity to forest
We will meet all provincial and municipal setbacks, including the imposed buffer to forested area. The advantages of the South March BESS location allow us to exceed setbacks while drastically reducing the need to cut down trees.
5. Fire at battery plant in California forcing evacuations
The Moss Landing fire was attributed to several factors:
- The battery chemistry used was Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC) technology, which is proven to be less safe.
- The containers were housed inside an enclosed space, reducing ventilation and increasing the risk of propagation, as we saw.
- The facility lacked the new and improved safety standards that containerized, LFP batteries undergo, such as large-scale burn testing.
- It was a first-generation BESS designed over seven years ago, since which time safety standards have drastically improved.
Despite the severity of the incident, there have been no recorded injuries or impact on human health.
6. Residents on John Aselford and Edith Margaret have only one escape route which entails getting closer to the BESS site.
The probability and severity of a fire incident is very low. There have been hundreds of burn tests done on these facilities. Our preferred battery selection has conducted numerous large-scale burn tests. Besides the fact that these units are extremely difficult to intentionally set fire to, the testing and real-world incident data show that these are contained within the proximity of the project site.
All of the local context will be considered as part of the Emergency Response Plan that is being prepared in consultation with the Ottawa Fire Services.
7. Proximity of homes on John Aselford, Edith Margaret Place, and Marchurst
The project will adhere to all requirements related to the local context and, where practical, we will work with the community to incorporate design features that address particular concerns.
One of the primary advantages of the South March location is its long setbacks to nearby residences. To the nearest home, the site is located more than triple the minimum distance set required by the City of Ottawa.
8. What fire prevention strategies will be applied?
All batteries will be equipped with a battery management system to ensure they are operated within safe operational thresholds. The battery management system is designed to shut the system down before an incident can occur.
In consultation with City of Ottawa Fire Services and international experts, our project will incorporate state-of-the-art preventative measures, including:
- Multiple sensors, including on each individual battery cell, being monitored 24/7 from our Networks Operation Centre (NOC)
- Built-in real-time temperature control systems
- Ventilation panels
- Insulated containers
- An outdoor, well-ventilated configuration
9. Please describe the emergency response process to fight a fire. Is there a successful response to a fire other than to let it “burn” out.
In the unlikely event of a fire, the fire alarm system will notify the Ottawa Fire Services (OFS). The OFS will respond to and monitor the event.
In consultation with OFS and the Energy Safety Response Group, industry best practice is to allow the fire to consume itself while maintaining the safety of the community and first responders. This has been proven to be a very manageable approach, and the safest one.
10. Has the firm completed a controlled fire on a BESS where the entire storage area burned? If not, why not? If so, what was the outcome? How much of the toxins leached into the ground or the air?
Yes, large-scale burn tests have been completed, specifically on our preferred battery selection, and have shown that a fire in one battery container does not spread to adjacent containers. Air quality monitoring and soil testing conducted throughout demonstrate that the quantities are well within acceptable limits.
11. Please provide all incidences with facilities similar to this one where an incident detrimental to the environment occurred.
Please share:
i. the environmental consequences of such incidences.
ii. the responses to such an incident including successes as well as failures.
iii. the dimensions of the containment area?
iv. Details of studies that have monitored the long-term impact of all such incidences.
We evaluated numerous containerized LFP battery vendors and prioritized fire safety as one of our primary criteria. As a result, the facility we are proposing is not comparable to the select few older facilities with reported fire incidents. Our preferred battery vendor has experienced no fire incidents with over 25,000 MWh deployed across facilities globally.
12. How will the firm train local fire departments to handle incidents such as battery fires or chemical leaks? Battery fires are recommended to let burn after it has been isolated as there will be too much water contamination. These fires can smoulder for weeks – how will you guarantee that the ground waters or the air will not be contaminated?
City of Ottawa Fire Services and their highly trained firefighters are well equipped to handle battery fire and chemical spill incidents. In controlled burns under worst-case scenarios, all LFP battery fires exhausted themselves. The project has secondary containment in each individual container, and our stormwater management system will adhere to or exceed all municipal and provincial requirements.
In his public remarks at a meeting of Ottawa City Council’s Agricultural and Rural Affairs Committee, Fire Chief Paul Hutt noted, “I can share with members of the committee and the public, it goes without saying, but we have very highly trained and skilled personnel with Ottawa Fire Services; we have modern technology and equipment for response.”
13. Will the Ottawa Fire Services approve the fire prevention measures in place for the site? What expertise do they have in this area? Perhaps a third party should be chosen?
In consultation with City of Ottawa Fire Services and international experts, we are looking to integrate:
-Multiple sensors, including on each individual battery cell, being monitored 24/7 from our Networks Operation Centre
-Built-in real-time temperature control systems
-Dry-pipe fire suppression systems
-Fire hydrants
-Ventilation panels
-On-site reservoirs
-Run-off containment systems
-Constant environmental monitoring including groundwater, air, and soil
City of Ottawa Fire Services and their highly trained firefighters are well equipped to handle battery fire and chemical spill incidents. In his public remarks at a meeting of Ottawa City Council’s Agricultural and Rural Affairs Committee, Fire Chief Paul Hutt noted, “I can share with members of the committee and the public, it goes without saying, but we have very highly trained and skilled personnel with Ottawa Fire Services; we have modern technology and equipment for response.”
We have also retained third-party expert consultants like the Energy Safety Response Group, DNV, and others to support emergency planning and preparations.
14. What is the risk of particulates contaminating the air during a BESS fire?
Large-scale burn tests have recently been conducted on the equipment that we are looking to purchase, and these tests have shown there is no risk to the public from air contamination.
We have also conducted preliminary air dispersion modelling with a third-party consultant to better represent the local context, which confirmed that there is no risk to the public from air contamination.
The results from both studies will be released once finalized, but you are encouraged to attend our Open House to speak with one of our third-party consultants about these tests.
15. We would like details on the fire-suppression technology/chemistry that will be used and its effect on the environment in the event of a fire. Who is responsible for cleanup following a fire?
All batteries will be equipped with a battery management system to ensure they are operated within safe operational thresholds. The battery management system is designed to shut the system down before a failure that could lead to a fire.
In consultation with City of Ottawa Fire Services and international experts, we are looking to integrate:
-Multiple sensors, including on each individual battery cell, being monitored 24/7 from our Networks Operation Centre
-Built-in real-time temperature control systems
-Dry-pipe fire suppression systems
-Fire hydrants
-Ventilation panels
-On-site reservoirs
-Run-off containment systems
-Constant environmental monitoring including groundwater, air, and soil
In the unlikely event of a fire, the fire alarm system will notify the Ottawa Fire Services (OFS). OFS will respond to and monitor the event. In consultation with OFS and the Energy Safety Response Group, industry best practice is to allow the fire to consume itself while maintaining the safety of the community and first responders. This has been proven to be manageable and safe approach.
OFS is responsible for the immediate emergency response and Evolugen is required by law to remove impacted equipment and debris.
16. Will the monitoring of sensors and cameras be done on a 24/7 basis and by humans? In the event of a fire, whether due to technical problems or vandalism/sabotage, the speed of response will be critical.
The remote monitoring is carried out by both third parties and from our Network Operations Centre (NOC), 24/7.
1. Home to a plethora of wildlife, including some endangered species -- deer, wild turkeys, turtles, coyotes, fishers, bear.
The project will adhere to all requirements related to the local context and, where practical, we will work with the community to incorporate design features that address particular concerns.
We have designed the site to have minimal impact on wildlife. Built alongside already existing transmission infrastructure, the entire site will be surrounded by a fence to keep wildlife away from the equipment.
2. Proximity to area designated as environmentally sensitive and significant
The project will adhere to all requirements related to the local context and, where practical, we will work with the community to incorporate design features that address particular concerns.
We've engaged environmental groups on this concern. Our project exceeds the recommended setbacks to Provincially Significant Wetlands, one of the many advantages of the South March BESS location.
3. The electromagnetic fields (EMFs) associated with a high voltage infrastructure like this BESS will generate EMFs that will affect the navigation and communication abilities of birds and bats.
The project will adhere to all requirements related to the local context and, where practical, we will work with the community to incorporate design features that address particular concerns.
One of the benefits of BESS is its compact footprint. The proposed site is only roughly 10 acres and is located adjacent to the existing high-voltage transmission line. The site will have no more impact than a single high-voltage utility substation.
4. Soil contamination. Traces of toxic metals in the soil.
From data collected after fire incidents, there's been no evidence of contamination of soil or groundwater.
Soil contamination and sampling is highly regulated under the Environmental Protection Act in Ontario. We are following best practices as they relate to soil contamination during construction of the facilities and continued operations of the facilities after construction completion to ensure safe and reliable operations.
5. A water table is not restorable after contamination - remember the Beckwith Plume, a 45 square kilometre area of contaminated groundwater running from Carleton Place to Black's Corners.
From data collected after fire incidents at older and less regulated facilities, there has been no evidence of contaminated groundwater.
The project has secondary containment in each individual container, and our stormwater management system will adhere to or exceed all municipal and provincial requirements.
6. What contaminants are in the plume of an explosion?
The risk of explosion is negligible because the system is designed to prevent the build up of combustable gases through both active and passive ventilation systems.
Large-scale burn tests have recently been conducted on the equipment that we are looking to purchase, and these tests have shown there is no risk to the public from air contamination.
We have also conducted preliminary air dispersion modelling with a third-party consultant to better represent the local context, which confirmed that there is no risk to the public from air contamination.
The results from both studies will be released once finalized, but you are encouraged to attend our Open House to speak with one of our third-party consultants about these tests.
7. Please provide the documented studies of the prevailing winds at this location and the environmental consequences the winds would have in exacerbating any environmental event.
Air Quality: The maximum predicted one-hour average concentration of CO complies with the OAAQC. Additionally, the maximum predicted concentrations of HF and CO comply with the applicable air limits.
OHS: Modeling indicates that the applicable IDLH limits are not exceeded on site or beyond the BESS fence line.
Public Health and Safety: The maximum predicted HF and CO off-site concentrations are within the applicable three tiers of AEGLs for all averaging periods.
Risk Summary: The public's risk of exposure is insignificant or at the de minimis level.
8. What is the risk of groundwater contamination from firefighting water runoff during a BESS fire?
The first line of defence is always to prevent an incident from happening. Before any construction, we will conduct all the required studies and put in place stringent safeguards above industry standards to mitigate any risk.
In the unlikely event of a fire incident, water will only be used to cool down adjacent containers and potentially used in a fog pattern to manage smoke.
Despite this, the project also has secondary containment in each individual container and our storm water management system will adhere to or exceed all municipal and provincial requirements.
It should be noted that there has never been an impact on groundwater from a BESS installation, even after a serious incident.
9. What are the drainage implications in our wet seasons or drought years? There will be impacts? What will be the effects on the ecological system since this proposed site is on or near to, the Carp Ridge / Escarpment? There are numerous water sources nearby posing significant concern for the groundwater contamination
The BESS facility will have its own dedicated and isolated stormwater management system. The drainage system is designed to contain all surface water on site, assuming the most severe seasonal weather over the last 100 years.
We are engaged in discussions with the Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority to ensure that all natural features are considered in our design.
10. Have detailed hydrogeological studies been performed? If there are contaminants that float on water and they manage to reach the water table, any pumping will lower the water table in a v type formation causing the contaminants to be brought lower, thus directly affecting the integrity of our wells.
Hydrogeological assessments are conducted by highly qualified engineers, and the details will be released when the results are finalized. These studies are required and must adhere to the appropriate bodies as part of our Municipal Site Plan and Zoning application.
The BESS facility will have its own dedicated and isolated stormwater management system. The drainage system is designed to contain all surface water on site, assuming severe weather scenarios.
11. How are they planning to cool the batteries? Is it with water? Something like a geothermal system? If so, how much water will they be drawing? Will they require a Permit to take water or will they be drawing so much water that they require a license? If so, how will that affect the flow rate in our wells?
The batteries have an internal, closed loop cooling system that does not draw on the community water supply.
12. How will the quality of our groundwater be affected if they are withdrawing massive amounts? Will we have to add more water treatment equipment?
We are not withdrawing any groundwater from the community.
13. How will BESS affect the livestock and wildlife in the area? Have any studies been done and what are the outcomes?
The project will incorporate fencing around its perimeter and will be built alongside already existing transmission infrastructure.
There will be no active lighting on site, and noise levels will be minimal so as to have a negligible impact.
14. How would a potential leak from the BESS affect the habitats of the following turtles in our area:
i. Snapping turtles (special concern)
ii. Blanding Turtles (endangered)
iii. Painted Turtle (special concern)
The project will adhere to all requirements related to the local context and, where practical, we will work with the community to incorporate design features that address particular concerns.
The risk of a leak is extremely low due to 24/7 monitoring and routine maintenance being performed on the equipment.
In the unlikely event that there is an issue, each individual container has secondary containment, and the site has an isolated storm water management system that will adhere to or exceed all municipal and provincial requirements.
13. How close is the BESS facility to the Environmentally Protected Area (EP3)?
We are adhering to all zoning requirements set forth by the City of Ottawa. The nearest Provincially Significant Wetland is over 600m from the project, well outside the imposed setbacks.
A high-voltage transmission corridor that spans 100m separates our project from the nearest EP3 zoned land, and we are an additional 100m from this electrical infrastructure.
14. In relation to the efffects of BESS fires, can you provide sources that elaborate on the risk of soil or water contamination?
No impact to the soils/water offsite have been recorded after any BESS fire incidents, including Moss Landing.
Monterey County Health officials have released prelinary results: https://www.readymontereycounty.org/emergency/2025-moss-landing-vistra-power-plant-fire/moss-landing-fire-update-soil-screening-data-summary-county-of-monterey-health-department-environmental-health-bureau-january-31-2025
15. Can you elaborate on "secondary containment", the option to add an extra container around each battery encolosure, a tray to collect leachate, and filtration process?
Each individual container is equipped with secondary containment. If there is an issue with the internal components, the bottom of the container is sealed to prevent anything from spilling out. The battery cells themselves are a dry type, and not liquid filled. The chiller has some fluids that are more relevant to the containment.
The entire site also includes grading and drainage system which captures potential runoff in an isolated retention pond.
16. Who will ensure the flow of surface water will remain the same?
Through the civil engineering design and site plan application, we are obligated to ensure natural waterflows are segregated from our drainage system and that the flow rates of any watercourses are maintained. There are no significant watercourses within the project footprint.
1. A visual blight on the landscape.
A main advantage of the South March location is that the site will not be visible from public roads.
We will also be incorporating a natural earth berm and planting trees around the site, further decreasing any visibility.
Where pratical, we will consider all requests of the community regarding the design and operations of the South March project. Please email info@getchargedottawa.ca with your recommendations.
2. The setbacks that were approved called for a 10m setback from the dripline of a forested area. The average ROW (right-of-way) is 20m for a residential street in Ottawa. The fires in California were easily able to cross road allowances, yet a 10m setback is recommended for the BESS. How is this safe?
The project will adhere to all requirements related to the local context and, where practical, we will work with the community and Ottawa Fire Services to incorporate design features that address particular concerns regarding setbacks from the dripline of a forested area.
The site layout and containers' safety technology are designed such that a fire incident would be contained within the project boundary and fence line, and safely managed by firefighting services.
All of the local context will be considered as part of the Emergency Response Plan that is being prepared in consultation with Ottawa Fire Services.
3. What is the proposed location of the BESS facility?
2555 Marchurst Road & 2625 Marchurst Road are a combined 200 acres. Our project will take up 10 acres, representing about 5% of the land. Several hundred metres in, over the ridge, there is an open field next to the transmission corridor leading to the South March substation.
Find an aerial image of the site at: https://www.getchargedottawa.ca/south-march-bess
4. Why does the BESS need new land? Why are they not planned to reuse existing hydro corridors?
Generation facilities are not permitted to be installed within the Hydro One Network Inc (HONI) hydro corridors.
5. Why does it make the most sense to install a BESS in a country setting? What data supports that this is the most ideal location?
i. Why not build closer to the demand?
ii. Why not build closer to the source of the electricity?
The South March site adheres to all the zoning and permitting requirements specified by the City of Ottawa and the province. The site was selected due to its proximity to existing the transmission line that serves the South March substation, generous setbacks from homes, and low visibility, among other factors.
6. Is the chosen area in the seismic sensitive area?
Based on site investigations and national building codes, this location would not be considered a seismically hazardous area and is safe to build on.
7. Both the Trail Road and proposed Fitzroy BESS locations were some distance away from the transmission lines, requiring the installation of a few KM of connecting cables. So the argument of proximity to hydro lines really doesn’t hold much weight. Could the facility be located?
i. relation to the Tomlinson area off Highway 7 and along the 417.
ii. near the industrial park Regional Road 5 intersection?
iii. On top of the Carp Dump?
iv. In the industrial park nestled between Highway 41, Highway 7 and Hazeldean road?
It is much more beneficial to build battery storage adjacent to transmission infrastructure. This decreases local impacts and increases the reliability of the system.
By increasing the work required to construct a transmission line, you increase impacts to the local area, including traffic flows, visibility, and more.
The South March site adheres to all the zoning and permitting requirement specified by the City of Ottawa and the province. The site was selected due to its proximity to existing the transmission line that serves the South March substation, generous setbacks from homes, and low visibility, among other factors.
8. If the present site/project is approved, are there any approvals already granted for expansion of the facilities?
Under our current LT1 contract with the IESO, the footprint of the site will not change. Thus, no site expansions are required.
9. Are there any plans for any kind of future expansion and if so, what are they? and what approvals/guarantees do you already have from the relevant authorities for such expansions?
There are no plans or pathways to expand the site under the IESO's 20-year, LT1 capacity contract. The IESO will soon be launching the forthcoming LT2 procurement to secure additional capacity for the province, which will utilise new sites and have no relation to South March or Trail Road.
10. Would any regulatory approvals be eased, modified, grandfathered, or eliminated for any expansion?
There are no plans for project expansions.
11. If the answer is affirmative to any of the above questions please provide all relevant documentation.
There are no plans for expansion.
12. If the answer is no please provide the applications applying for such expansions and the documents denying such expansions and/or easements of regulations with respect to those expansions.
There are no plans for expansion.
13. Will the containers be placed on a concrete pad in an effort to contain spills. Concrete is porous and degrades over time, will they add some sort of protective membrane to the concrete? Will they place liners underneath the concrete?
The structural foundations will be designed according to the project life and sound engineering practice. We are looking to utilize low-impact helical piles, or concrete piers that are secure and reduce impact to the land. These decisions will be informed by ongoing consultations with local stakeholders.
The project has secondary containment in each individual container and our stormwater management system will adhere to or exceed all municipal and provincial requirements.
14. Will the site be fenced protecting it from wildlife and vandals?
Yes, the project site will have a fence that stretches for the entire perimeter of the facility.
15. Given that high speed internet service and cell services is not reliable… how does Evolugen propose to remote monitor the facility?
A reliable service network will be installed as part of the facility construction to allow secure internet and cellular service. Site protection is done independently of an internet line or cell connection, and in the case of fault or failure, the site is placed in a safe state and disconnected from the transmission grid.
In the instance of any issues of remote monitoring, the site is designed to shut down until communications are re-established.
16. I was surprised to read on the City website that no water or sewers will be required. How will rain water & drainage on the site be managed?
No sewer is required on site. The BESS facility will have its own dedicated and isolated stormwater management system and on-site water reservoir.
The drainage system is designed to manage all surface water on site, with design preparations for the most severe seasonal weather over the last 100 years.
17. How will these storage containers be secured if tornados were to occur?
The containers are heavy and anchored to the ground. There is no prospect of them being affected by a tornado.
18. What techniques will be applied to ensure the safety of the site in the event of earthquake?
The project area has been assessed and does not pose a significant risk in the event of an earthquake. The design considers that higher level of resiliency and will be able to withstand reasonably sized earthquakes. These considerations include appropriate foundation design and anchoring.
19. If a fire originates in our neighbourhood, which is mostly wooded, how will the heat produced by that fire affect the stability of the batteries? Can the cooling system keep up?
Backed by conducted burn testing reaching temperatures significantly higher than a forest fire, the containers are designed so that if a fire were to be adjacent to their walls, it would not cause the container to overheat or propagate.
20. If the storage containers are not level what is the risk? Storage containers can lose level by sinking into the ground because the foundation is not adequate, or it could happen during a natural disaster such as an earthquake. Will the monitoring equipment, fire suppression system be affected by such a shift? What foundation will be placed under the containers? What liners will be used?
Civil foundation design will follow sound engineering practice, taking into account the geotechnical conditions in the area.
21. How is stormwater from the site kept separate from natural water sources?
The BESS facility will have its own dedicated and isolated stormwater management system. The drainage system is designed to contain all surface water on site, assuming the most severe seasonal weather over the last 100 years.
The water flow from the BESS site will not mix with the water from the existing streams.
22. What zoning permits the installation of 250MW BESS?
As per the City of Ottawa, Considerations for zoning must consider their intended use, preferred location and size. The Zoning By-law therefore needs to distinguish between a BESS facility intended as a standalone use and which is connected directly to the electrical grid and a BESS that is accessory and supports principal residential and non-residential uses.
7) Non public utility battery energy storage systems (BESS) are permitted as a principal use in the following land use designations:
a) Rural Countryside designation and Rural Industrial and Logistics designation.
b) Mixed Industrial and Industrial and Logistics designations in the Inner Urban, Outer Urban and Suburban Transects.
A new Zoning By Law Amendment process is being introduced at the City to inform zoning going forward.
1.Our housing values will plummet in an area that stands to be shared with an experimental facility. What they are proposing on Marchurst will be the 5th largest battery facility in Canada.
The project is supporting local development in the area, which may bring associated increases in property values.
Mitigation measures will be implemented in accordance with the recommendations of the MTF Class EA, which will include input from the local community. There could include, for example, tree planting, vegetation buffers, decorative / community-friendly fencing and/or an earth berm along the perimeter of the site to visually mask the facility.
A reliable and safe supply of electricity can be a positive attribute for the area and for property values.
2. Impact to home insurance
There is no data that shows that this project will have an impact on home insurance.
3. Will the facility be lighted at night? How bright will it be? This is a huge facility, 14 acres was the size proposed in Fitzroy.
There will be no active lighting on site.
There will be purpose-built lighting that will remain dark at all times and only be used should a technician need to come to the site. We've also reduced the footprint of the system to almost 10 acres.
4. How much noise will be generated by this facility?
Noise will not exceed 40 decibels at the nearest residence and will reduce drastically as you move further from the site.
The noise will be comparable to that of a fridge, and would be completely inaudible beyond the setback distance.
5. What will be the impact on hydro rates?
BESS projects are the most affordable option available to meet the province's rapidly growing power needs.
The South March BESS was procured through the IESO's Long-Term (LT1) procurement to meet this need. This procurement saw over 41,000 MW of bids competing for 1,000 MW of contracts. The high degree of competitiveness helped drive down bid prices, resulting in the lowest-ever price of procured capacity in the province, with other resource types competing in this procurement.
In comparison to natural gas first-generation projects, which submitted an average bid price of $1,681 per MW/business day, BESS projects submitted $672 per MW/business day. This means that delivering the 250 MW of capacity proposed by South March BESS would be 60% more expensive through a gas plant, with a larger footprint.
6. Although safety is currently being prioritized, there are irreversible and significant consequences for residents in the area if things go wrong. What would this look like for us in 10, 20 years from now?
Our preferred choice of battery (this particular system uses a containerized system of Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries) has experienced no fire incidents with over 25,000 MWh deployed across facilities globally, and thus no resulting environmental impacts.
The benefits in 10 or 20 years from now will be more reliable energy for you and the next generation, reduced electricity rates, fewer blackouts, lower emissions, a skilled workforce able to adapt to these types of projects, community support through our Community Development Fund, and more.
1. Lack of community consultation (late consultation)
For clarity, no project proposal has been submitted to the city. We are still actively consulting the community. Our Open House and future engagements are meant to answer questions and collect feedback to inform the project.
The South March location was identified as one of the best sites after assessing dozens of other potential sites. Extensive due diligence to select this site enabled us to have the maximized setbacks, less of an impact to the environment, and greater local benefit by tapping into the South March sub station.
2. What other forms of consultation will take place?
We have engaged in consultation with numerous industry professionals and community partners.
-Indigenous consultation with the Algonquins of Pikwakanagan
-Community consultations with local residents that continue to take place
-Fire safety consultations with City of Ottawa Fire Services and the Energy Safety Response Group, including hosting training sessions with local firefighters
-Environmental consultations with experts and local advocacy groups
-Planning consultation with City staff
-Construction consultations with experienced and trusted engineering firms3. What information will be shared?
All city permits, site plan studies, public letters and environmental evaluations will be made public on our project website when completed: www.GetChargedOttawa.ca
4. How will information will be shared?
Information on our project will be primarily shared through our project website: www.GetChargedOttawa.ca
We are also accessible through our GetCharged Ottawa Facebook Page, or by emailing us directly at info@getchargedottawa.ca
We will continue to communicate to residents in a number of ways, including public events, letters in the local news, and face-to-face conversations with residents.
5. Can you explain why you have refused to hold a real-time Q&A (town hall)
This engagement session is meant to be an opportunity for our team and our technical experts to connect with local residents to answer questions and solicit feedback on the BESS project design. A key objective of our Open House will be to present our initial design layouts and gather meaningful input from neighbours to help us advance to the next stage of project detail – the types of conversations that are best enabled through an extended, face-to-face dialogue, with maps and photos.
1. What is the source of the power that will be stored the at this facility? If it is wind/solar, justify why it is not being built build on these (pre-approved) site.
The BESS will draw electricity from the provincial power system, connecting through a Hydro One transmission connection. Typically drawing overnight, much of the intake will be from generation assets in Eastern Ontario, namely hydroelectric, nuclear, and wind sources.
2. Please provide the studies demonstrating how much power this facility would produce during a power failure and for how long it can provide this power. Please state who are going to be the main beneficiaries of this facility? Also provide the studies that justify this type of power backup compared to other alternatives.
The South March BESS will be charged during off-peak hours using Ontario's energy grid and will be able to discharge up to 1,000 MWh for consumers, including those served by the South March substation. In the event of an outage or a grid event, the IESO would be responsible for dispatching power. A few real-world examples of BESS performing during power outages include:
- In Parent, QC last year a battery provided power to a remote community during planned and unplanned outages.
- During southern Alberta's power outage in January 2024, BESS installations were the highest-performing energy asset class with 100% deployment.
- Following major winter and summer outages in Texas, the state has installed over 11 GWh of BESS to relieve outages and restore power after incidents.
3. What barriers are in place to physically contain any leakage from BESS? How will that be remediated?
The project will adhere to all requirements related to the local context and, where practical, we will work with the community to incorporate design features that address particular concerns.
The risk of a leak is extremely low due to 24/7 monitoring and routine maintenance being performed on the equipment.
In the unlikely event that there is an issue, each individual container has secondary containment, and the site has an isolated stormwater management system that will adhere to or exceed all municipal and provincial requirements.
4. What is the list of contaminants that we are dealing with on a day to day basis and in the event of a catastrophe?
Evidence shows that in the event of fire incidents at some of these older facilities, there has been no overexposure to contaminants. In normal operations, there are no contaminants emmitted.
5. Are there backup systems to heat or cool the batteries? How much capacity do these systems have? Are they just for 100% of daily requirements or do they have reserve capacity? If so, how much? What is the factor of safety?
The battery containers have self-contained mechanical heating and liquid cooling systems designed to maintain the battery at a safe operating temperature. Reserve capacity is built into the cooling system.
6. Will the containers be insulated? If so, what insulation will be used? Polyurethane foam, polyisocyanurate foam, phenolic foam and spray foam all release toxins when burnt. How will these levels be monitored in a catastrophe? Is the testing instantaneous or is there a waiting time for results?
The insulation within the container is no different than what you may find in a typical house or building. It is non-combustible, fire resistant, and will not develop toxic smoke when exposed to fire.
7. Do the batteries (containers) need to be heated in the winter? How will that be accomplished?
Yes, the self-contained mechanical heating system will maintain the battery at a safe temperature.
8. Batteries have a lifespan of 15-20 years but after replacement it would extend the life to 30-40 years. What is the useful life of this facility?
The proposed project would see a 20-year contract with the IESO starting May 2028. We are committed to returning the land to its original state at the end of the contract.
9. How many times will the batteries be replaced?
Battery efficiency can decrease over time. We will monitor this at South March BESS and may add to the system as required to maintain a safe and reliable energy supply, within the existing project footprint.
This will not affect the project footprint as the area required to maintain batteries is already considered.
10. What is the disposal practice for the old batteries?
At their end-of-life, battery modules will either be refurbished for alternative uses or processed at domestic recycling facilities.
11. How much experience does Evolugen have in these installations?
Our team has successfully operated 850 MW across numerous BESS facilities, with the earliest facility online since 2013. We have another 2200 MW of BESS facilities under construction, including a 500MW BESS site in Australia, and over 30 GWh of BESS in development.
12. You state on your website that lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries will be used, yet in the Are BESS facilities safe FAQ, you talk about lithium ion batteries. Which technology do you plan to use in South March? This is a key issue as LFP batteries are inherently safer than lithium ion batteries from a Lire-risk perspective. Because of this, we would want to see a commitment to LFP batteries for this site. We cannot support use of lithium ion batteries due to the higher Lire risk and the impact of a Lire on an ecologically signiLicant area like the Carp Hills.
Lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries are a specific type of lithium ion battery. Lithium iron phosphate is proven to be safer than the nickel manganese cobalt batteries. We can confirm that the South March project proposes to use lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries.
13. Will third-party inspections of the containers, fire-suppression system, and sensors be carried out on a regular basis?
Yes, this will be part of the operations and maintenance program.
14. Are there any sources you can provide about the sort of safety measures that are now standard for new BESS projects? Are there any sources from local projects?
The latest technology for LFP containerized batteries is being proposed for the South March project. These systems improve upon the older, lesser standardized systems of the past. You can find articles on the advantages of LFP batteries online.
On safety measures locally, you can find the City of Ottawa FAQs on BESS safety here: https://engage.ottawa.ca/renewable-energy-generation/news_feed/battery-energy-storage-systems-bess-frequently-asked-questions-faq-s-on-fire-safety-2
15. Evolugen has stated that they will use LFP batteries rather than Lithium ion batteries as was intended for the Fitzroy BESS. South March BESS is and Fitzroy BESS was billed as 250 MW and 1000 MWH. The Fitzroy BESS was estimated to require 280-290 shipping containers. The downside of LFP batteries is that they have a low energy density and discharge performance than Lithium ion. Given this limitation of LFP, what is the estimate of the number of shipping containers required to house the batteries at South March?
Lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries are a specific type of lithium ion battery. Lithium iron phosphate is proven to be safer than other types like nickel manganese cobalt batteries. We can confirm that the South March project proposes to use lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries.'
Over time, battery technology improves much like cellhpones. They get smaller, safer, and have more capabilities. South March BESS proposes to use roughly 250 containers within the project footprint.
16. A BESS will typically be able to discharge stored energy for up to four hours. Given that Evolugen will be using LFP batteries with lower discharge potential, please provide the maximum number of hours that the South March BESS could discharge energy to the Grid.
Our battery selection prioritizes safety above all else. The proposed LFP system could distribute up to 1000MWh back into the grid over a period of 4 hours, when it's most needed to meet capacity and reduce costs.
17. With respect to the safety of the proposed BESS facility, how many similar facilities using the same technology have been constructed previously? What is the safety record of those facilities?
We are in the process of finalizing our battery supplier and can confirm that our preferred choice of battery (this particular system uses a containerized system of Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries) has experienced no fire incidents with over 25,000 MWh deployed across facilities globally. Safety is our foremost priority in vendor selection.
18. Do you have any datasheets for the system being installed?
While we have not completely finalized our choice of supplier, we are prioritizing safety above all else in our selection. Please refer to the attached datasheets for insight: Sungrow PowerTitan 2.0, Powin Pod, Tesla Megapack.
19. Number of batteries, capacity of each battery, how many cells per container, AC to DC conversion efficiency, DC to AC conversion efficiency, storage efficiency over time and the charging and redistribution strategy/agreement with the city?
Number of batteries: Depending on which supplier is selected, the number of individual battery cells within each unit will differ. We expect the project to deploy 250 containers each of which consists of 4-6 racks, containing 4-8 modules, and number of individual cells depends on supplier, but capacity will remain at ~5MWh.
Capacity of each battery: Each container has a capacity of around ~5MWh.
On AC to DC conversion efficiency & DC to AC conversion efficiency: These batteries have a round-trip efficiency of 88-90% at the battery terminals.
Storage efficiency over time and the charging: While round-trip efficiency doesn’t degrade linearly over time, a rough estimate of 0.1% per year can be expected.
Redistribution strategy/agreement with the city: We have a 20-year contract with the IESO for the South March BESS site which requires 1000 MWh (250MW over 4hrs) of daily distribution to manage the grid more efficiently and leverage the benefits of renewables i.e., reduced costs, reduced emissions.
Specifications: The system will deploy 250MW of Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) batteries. The site will consist of approximately 250 secure containers placed on roughly 10 acres of land along the transmission line, connecting to the South March Transformer Station.
1. If the purpose of this facility is being used to provide power during outages cause by an infrastructure failure, please provide an assessment of the cost effectiveness of such a facility compared to upgrading our delivery infrastructure to minimize such failures.
The project's primary use is to provide additional capacity to help meet Ottawa's rapidly increasing peak demand. It will help prevent outages such as those that affected 22,000 customers on February 8. The project is complementary to major work in upgrading aging delivery infrastructure, including the IESO's $600m investment in Gatineau Corridor End-of-Life plan.
You can learn more about this through a report completed by Dunsky Energy + Climate on the benefits of BESS: https://www.getchargedottawa.ca/report-optimizing-ottawa-power-grid
2. What insurance coverage will you provide for rectifying any damages caused by such a facility in the event of a fire or groundwater contamination?
Although the likelihood of an incident is extremely low due to our commitment to safety and quality throughout construction of the facility, robust design considerations and proven BESS technology, we do have sudden and accidental pollution coverage under our liability master policy well in excess of $100,000,000.00.
3. Who will be responsible financially for any environmental incidents at this facility? What value of liability insurance will be assigned to this facility. What does it cover? What does it exclude?
Brookfield will be responsible. Although the likelihood of an environmental incident is extremely low due to our commitment to safety and quality throughout construction of the facility, robust design considerations and proven BESS technology, we do have sudden and accidental pollution coverage under our liability master policy well in excess of $100,000,000.00.
4. How much insurance is Evolugen putting up to protect the residents in case of a disaster caused by the operation of BESS or a natural disaster? We may not only lose our homes and the forested areas, but we may also lose potable water resulting in a total 100% loss, meaning we will not be able to rebuild on our land.
Although the likelihood of an environmental incident is extremely low due to our commitment to safety and quality throughout construction of the facility, robust design considerations and proven BESS technology, we do have sudden and accidental pollution coverage under our liability master policy well in excess of $100,000,000.00.
5. Please provide the list of all public funds that have been allotted, and will be allotted, to finance this infrastructure. How much private funding is being committed?
Evolugen is an entirely private company, a wholly-owned entity of Brookfield Renewable Partners. We will not be receiving any government grants, loans, or any other public funding for the proposed South March BESS projects – though we will be eligible for the federal government’s Clean Energy Investment Tax Credits (ITCs). 100% of the funding is private.
6. Who is going to bear the legal and financial liability for the equipment once the facility shuts down and components moved offsite? How are the expended batteries managed?
Evolugen is responsible throughout the life cycle of the project, including decommissioning. The batteries' conditions will be assessed and re-purposed if possible. If they are not suitable, they will be taken to offshore recycling facilities to reuse all materials that can be recycled.
7. Who will financially benefit from this project? In other words, why are you doing this?
Like all businesses, Evolugen expects to earn a rate of return on this investment. We have secured a contract to provide capacity to the Ontario electrical system through the highly competitive LT1 tender process and will earn additional revenue through daily operations of the equipment.
While it will be privately financed, there will be a significant financial benefit to the local community, ratepayers, and the Province of Ontario. Amongst other beneficiaries, the project will unlock significant investment and job creation for energy-intensive companies at the Kanata North Technology Park and other employers. We are developing these projects in direct response to the IESO's call for increased capacity.
8. What will be the impact on local property values?
Improvements in local energy infrastructure tend to have a positive impact on property values nearby. The quality and reliability of the electricity supply is an essential consideration for prospective buyers, and the deployment of BESS delivers a major reinforcement for the local power supply.
Hydro Ottawa has said, "A reliable and safe supply of electricity can be a positive attribute for the area and for property values."
Evolugen will be investing in elevated berms, treelines, vegetation buffers, and other measures based on community feedback that would make the South March BESS out of sight and inaudible from nearby public roads.
1. The South March BESS will connect to IESO using the nearby 230 kV circuit. I assume you mean that the BESS will connect to Ontario's Grid NOT IESO. Therefore the energy fed back to the Grid will be distributed across Ontario and cannot be directed to anyone location. Please confirm that this is the case with the energy that would be fed back to the Grid from South March BESS.
Our originally proposed site at Fitzroy connected to the 200km transmission line that feeds power into Peterborough and then onto Toronto. Although this would plug into the provincial grid and have an overall benefit for residents, we learned that connecting directly to the 30km transmission line that feeds into South March substation would have a much larger local benefit for West Carleton and the City of Ottawa.
2. There is no provincial regulatory network. Will one be put in place?
The project is subject to environmental permissions under the Environmental Protection Act and Ontario Water Resources Act. Permits for air and noise emissions, industrial sewage works, drainage, etc will be required. The Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks provided direction for the approval of BESS systems.
The project must follow all Canadian codes associated with safe construction and operation, follow the Ontario Electrical Code, and adhere to all of Hydro One's safety standards prior to interconnection.
3. What national or international regulations are defined to govern this space? Which ones are relevant? Demonstrate how they will be respected.
Canadian codes and standards regulated by authorities such as the IESO, Hydro One, City of Ottawa, and the Ontario government are all applicable and required for the permitting of the project. The most relevant standards are with the Canadian Standards Association, Ontario Electrical Safety Code, National Fire Protection Code 855 and the National Building Code.
codes and standards required for any generation facility within Ontario will be adhered to.
4. Will their day-to-day operations be overseen by an independent third party?
They will be overseen by both third-party experts, Evolugen operations personnel, the IESO, as well as transmission connection visibility by Hydro One.
5. Who will inspect the facility? How often will inspections be performed?
An independent engineer will certify the installation and the Ottawa Fire Services will inspect the installation before initial operation begins, in addition to the Electrical Safety Authority of Ontario. Thereafter, preventative maintenance and inspections will be performed on a regular basis in collaboration with the equipment supplier, third-party experts, and Evolugen Operations personnel.