Energy Storage Project:
426 E Brighton Ave

Powering a reliable, resilient grid

Energy storage systems are an essential part of building a modern, resilient, and low-carbon electric grid. Developing safe, reliable, and effective storage projects helps communities make the most of renewable energy sources like wind and solar.

Because energy supply and demand don’t always align, batteries help balance the system—storing electricity when demand is low and delivering it back to the grid when it’s needed most. These large-scale systems provide consistent, stable electricity for homes and businesses.

The E Brighton Ave Energy Storage System would connect to existing electric lines, charging from the grid when demand is low and supplying power back when demand is high.

ABOUT BATTERY ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEMS

PROJECT BENEFITS

✅ Improves grid resilience and reliability.
Will provide backup power during peak demand in Syracuse’s Eastside and Southside neighborhoods, stabilizing the grid and helping prevent outages.

✅ Reduces costs for everyone.
Will provide discounts to Low and Middle Income ratepayers enrolled in New York’s Energy Affordability Program.

✅ Supports a cleaner grid.
Will reduce reliance on fossil-fueled “peaker” plants, like National Grid’s natural gas plant located on Belle Isle Road in Solvay, NY.

✅ Strengthens local economies.
Projects contribute to local tax bases and support public services in the communities where they’re built. Will trigger a $1M investment in much needed safety equipment at National Grid’s Rock Cut Station at no expense to ratepayers.

Safety is Priority #1

New Leaf Energy is working closely with the Syracuse Fire Department to ensure the project meets strict state and national safety codes before receiving approval to operate. 

Each system is remotely monitored, has built-in fire protection features, has a site-specific Emergency Response Plan (ERP), and is regularly inspected and maintained.

About the E Brighton Ave Project

The project is proposed for 426 E Brighton Ave, across from Mirabito, and would include two Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) enclosed by a chain-link fence with vegetative screening along the street.

The systems would connect to existing utility lines on E Brighton Ave and provide power to the nearby Rock Cut Substation—supporting reliable electricity for up to 10,000 local Syracuse residents during periods of peak demand.

THE PROJECT

ABOUT NEW LEAF ENERGY

New Leaf Energy is a renewable energy developer committed to accelerating the transition to a world powered by renewable energy. With more than 20 years of experience, we’re the leading renewable energy developer in New York, Massachusetts, and Maine.

In New York, our track record includes: 4 energy storage systems built, 14 energy storage projects successfully permitted, 24 energy storage projects currently in permitting, and 67 energy storage projects in early-stage development.

Learn more

Frequently Asked Questions

  • The E Brighton Ave Project is a battery energy storage system that will store and deliver clean energy to Syracuse’s Eastside and Southside neighborhoods, supporting New York’s transition to renewable power. The project will help reduce the need for fossil fuel “peaker” plants, minimize the risk of rolling blackouts, and cut air pollution in local communities.

  • The proposed site is at 426 E Brighton Ave, on an empty lot that is currently used as a storage site for refuse containers. 

  • New York has set ambitious goals for clean, reliable, and affordable energy. Battery storage is key to reaching those goals—it stores renewable energy (like wind and solar) for use when demand is high, making the grid more resilient and reducing the risk of outages.

  • Yes. Public input is an important part of the process. New Leaf has participated in four community meetings where information on the project was provided. Community feedback has resulted in an improved design including vegetative screening, a reduction in the number of utility poles, and several streetscape improvements. Please contact us if you’d like to connect in person.

  • Each battery system is housed in a sealed steel container with internal compartments for added protection. Containers include:

    • On-board voltage, temperature, and gas monitoring

    • Climate control and fire suppression systems

    • Automated shutoff features

    If a battery overheats, the system can isolate and cool that unit immediately. Emergency services are automatically notified if thresholds are exceeded. Each container also includes an aerosol fire suppression system that rapidly reduces temperature and prevents ignition without using water.

  • Yes. A detailed ERP will be developed in coordination with local emergency services and will meet or exceed all relevant safety regulations. It will address emergency response, public notification, inspection, and battery recycling/disposal procedures.

  • Yes. New Leaf Energy is working closely with the Syracuse Fire Department and nearby fire protection agencies to ensure the project meets or exceeds all fire safety requirements.

  • New Leaf Energy is a national renewable energy development company that designs and builds battery storage, solar, and wind projects across the U.S. Our mission is to lead the transition to a clean, resilient, and decarbonized energy future.

  • Please reach out through our contact page for more information, or to connect in person.