AB 434: Battery energy storage facilities.

This bill would exclude energy storage facilities using batteries from a certification process, which would normally exempt them from state, local, and regional permits. The bill would prohibit the construction of battery energy storage facilities until January 1, 2028, and require the state fire marshal to develop guidelines and minimum standards to prevent fires and protect nearby communities. After January 1, 2028, public agencies would need to require battery energy storage facilities to meet these guidelines or more stringent standards. This bill would impose additional duties on local agencies, making it a state-mandated local program. No reimbursement is required for this act.