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Illustration created using AI.
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Hello subscriber subscriber
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You are receiving this email because you indicated your interest in helping us stop the construction of a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) on Skye Road in Dunvegan, Township of North Glengarry.
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Immediate Action Needed:
Urgent concerns About Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) in North Glengarry, Ontario.
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The Township of North Glengarry is facing a critical issue that poses a significant threat to the safety, environment, and agricultural heritage of our community. On February 24, 2025, our municipal council unanimously passed a zoning bylaw amendment (Z-01-2025) to rezone 15 acres of agricultural land from General Agricultural to Agricultural Exception 257. This change paves the way for a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), a potentially hazardous project led by Toronto-based Compass Energy Consulting Inc. through a local business entity.
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Select the photo to play the video.
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What is BESS, and Why Should We Care?
BESS facilities consist of large arrays of lithium-ion batteries stored in containers, marketed as a solution to stabilize power fluctuations, prevent brownouts, and provide backup power for up to four hours during grid failures. Proponents claim that BESS supports renewable energy sources, such as industrial wind turbines and solar arrays. However, evidence suggests these systems pose significant risks, including:
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- Fire and Explosion Hazards:
Lithium-ion battery fires are intense, difficult to extinguish, and can release toxic fumes. Recent incidents, such as a fire at Racine Terminal in Montreal on September 23, 2024, and multiple fires at Moss Landing, California, highlight these dangers.
- Environmental Risks:
Potential contamination of water tables, soil, and environmentally sensitive areas.
- Health Concerns:
Toxic emissions from battery fires could affect nearby residents.
- Insurance and Evacuation Challenges:
Lack of clear plans for managing fire risks or evacuations in case of an incident.
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Despite these concerns, the council has dismissed them, with the mayor referring to the project as a “done deal” at the March 10, 2025, council meeting. It’s clear that our voices are not being heard. Watch the meeting here.
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Select the photo to play the video.
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Community Response and Council’s Dismissal
On March 10, 2025, over 150 residents attended a council meeting to voice their concerns—an unprecedented turnout reported by local media. Residents raised critical questions about fire risks, environmental degradation, and evacuation plans, but the mayor and fire chief offered dismissive and uninformed responses. The fire chief demonstrated limited knowledge of BESS fire management, while the mayor refused to entertain further discussion, claiming the zoning change was final without adequate public consultation.
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Following the meeting, two residents issued Notices of Liability (NOLs) to council members, the Chief Administrative Officer, and the Chief Building Official on March 11, 2025. An appeal to the Ontario Land Tribunal was filed. The Tribunal did not allow the resident a chance to bring forth evidence, as a recent change in third party appeal rights (rights of residents) all but eliminated the public from challenging municipal by laws passed by North Glengarry Council. A subsequent appeal to the Normal Farm Practices Protection Board is ongoing.
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Additional council meeting videos are available on the Township’s YouTube channel (March 24, April 14, April 28, May 12, and May 26, 2025).
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On April 30, 2025, Compass Energy Consulting held a public presentation, which residents turned into a question-and-answer session attended by over 200 people from North Glengarry and neighbouring communities. Despite the significant turnout, the mayor and some councillors left early, underscoring their reluctance to engage with the public. A future newsletter will provide a detailed account of this event, as local media coverage was biased.
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Select the photo to play the video.
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A Call to Action: Say No to BESS
The Township of North Glengarry Council must act immediately to repeal bylaw amendment Z-01-2025 to halt this dangerous and ill-advised BESS project. During the public information meeting held by Compass, the proponent stressed repeatedly that the BESS would be utilized to support the growing demand for electricity in Ottawa. North Glengarry residents would assume all the risk with no tangible benefit to the local community. We cannot afford to compromise our community’s safety, environment, and agricultural heritage with unproven and risky technology. It’s time for residents to rise up, notify our elected officials, and demand accountability.
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Here’s how you can help:
- Contact Your Councillors:
Voice your opposition to BESS projects and demand the repeal of this bylaw amendment. Find contact information on the Township’s website.
- Attend Council Meetings:
Attend upcoming meetings to demonstrate community strength and awareness of council business. Check the schedule at northglengarry.ca.
- Spread Awareness:
Share this newsletter and reliable information about BESS risks with neighbours and local businesses. Learn more about BESS dangers here.
- Support the Appeal:
Stay informed about the Ontario Farm Board appeal by contacting them and voicing your concerns.
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Why Generators Are a Safer Alternative
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Instead of investing in risky BESS facilities, the Township could provide residents and businesses with individual generators. These are more reliable, cost-effective, and manageable during the frequent power outages in our area without the environmental and safety risks associated with BESS.
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Stay Informed and Engaged
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The council’s approach and dismissal of legitimate concerns are unacceptable. We must stand together to protect North Glengarry from the dangers of rezoning prime agricultural land for industrial utility use. Stay tuned for updates on the April 30 meeting.
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Together, we can say NO to BESS and preserve our community’s future.
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We thank you for your continued interest in this common battle threatening our health and livelihood in Eastern Ontario.
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Please note: We adhere to the no-spam policy regulations.
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