South March BESS

250 MW – Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) Battery Energy Storage System

About the South March BESS

We are proposing to build a 250 MW Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery energy storage facility off Marchurst Road.
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. The batteries will store power from the grid overnight, and release it during the day to help meet the region’s growing electricity demand.
If approved, we plan to have the project operational by the Fall of 2027.

Project Overview

The proposed project is in the feasibility stage and consists of installing battery modules, some additional power equipment, and light civil, safety, and security infrastructure. It is expected to be operational by 2027. The project site is currently under review. Further details and project updates will be provided shortly on this page.

Benefits of BESS in South March

200 Jobs Created

Grid Stability and Lower Energy Costs

$250,000 for Community Programs

Rural Economic Growth

South March Community Development Fund

The South March Community Development Fund supports local projects that foster inclusivity, sustainability, and community growth. It funds:

For Community, By Community

Decisions on funding are made by local leaders, volunteers, small business owners, and advocates who understand the community’s needs.

Funding Goals

Support Local Initiatives: Back projects benefiting Ward 5 directly, like community programs or facility upgrades.
Promote Inclusivity: Ensure resources for underserved groups through sports or job initiatives.
Encourage Sustainability: Fund programs that emphasize environmental and social responsibility, such as school projects or nonprofit events.
Foster Community Spirit: Support cultural events, fairs, and gatherings that bring people together.
Develop Health and Safety: Provide funding for training programs, wellness activities, and safety initiatives like fire department training or senior education programs.

Other Community Benefits

Job Creation: Over 200 direct jobs in South March, plus indirect opportunities through local businesses, construction contracts, and studies.
Opportunities for Local Trades: General contractors, electricians, equipment operators, and more.
Support for Local Fire Departments: Collaboration with local fire departments to enhance training, research, and resources. Recent training with City of Ottawa Fire Department (October 2024) reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen emergency response capabilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the South March BESS significant?

Battery energy storage systems (BESS) are a critical component of Ontario’s energy transition strategy. These systems provide essential support for renewable energy integration and grid stability, allowing the province to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels. BESS not only enhance energy reliability but also bring direct and indirect benefits to local communities, including infrastructure investments.

The BESS planned for South March will fully adhere to all city regulations, bylaws, and safety requirements, while also establishing a Community Development Fund to invest in projects of local importance, led by a steering committee of local members.

What is Ontario's stance on BESS?

Ontario’s government sees BESS as essential to its energy transition goals. These systems are critical in managing renewable energy and stabilizing the power grid, helping the province reduce its dependence on fossil fuels while achieving environmental and economic objectives.

Provincial Energy Goals: Ontario’s Long-Term Energy Plan highlights BESS as a key technology for integrating renewable energy sources into the grid.

Economic Growth and Innovation: Investments in BESS foster job creation and innovation, positioning Ontario as a leader in renewable energy.

What benefits do BESS bring to local communities?

In South March, BESS will enhance energy reliability, provide economic benefits, and directly support local infrastructure through the creation of a Community Development Fund. This fund will prioritize investments in projects that matter most to the community, led by a local steering committee.

Energy Reliability: BESS strengthen the local energy grid, ensuring stable electricity supply during peak demand periods, reducing the risk of power outages.

Community Development Fund: A fund will be established, managed by local community members, to invest in key projects such as schools, recreational facilities, or other community infrastructure.

How do BESS impact the environment?

BESS play a crucial role in environmental sustainability by storing excess renewable energy for later use, reducing the need for fossil fuels. These systems undergo rigorous environmental assessments to ensure compliance with regulations and to minimize disruption to local ecosystems.

Renewable Energy Integration: BESS enable the efficient storage of renewable energy, allowing it to be used during peak demand and reducing the overall carbon footprint.

Environmental Assessments: Each BESS project is subjected to strict environmental reviews to ensure that it complies with all relevant regulations and minimizes its impact on the local environment.

Are BESS facilities safe?

The BESS industry is undergoing rapid growth and development. Lithium-ion batteries, commonly used in mobile phones and electric cars, are currently the dominant storage technology for large-scale BESS facilities. Concerns have been raised regarding the safety of BESS facilities because lithium-ion batteries contain flammable electrolytes that, if overheated, can short circuit and catch fire, a scenario known as “thermal runaway.” This type of fire can be difficult to extinguish, and BESS infrastructure is costly to replace. Reducing risk of fire is therefore an important consideration for both municipalities and project developers. Technology is consistently being improved with safety features to address these concerns, including cooling systems and real-time temperature monitoring.

Source: Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s) on fire safety. Engage Ottawa. (2025). https://engage.ottawa.ca/renewable-energy-generation/news_feed/battery-energy-storage-systems-bess-frequently-asked-questions-faq-s-on-fire-safety-2

Who sets the fire safety requirements for BESS?

From a BESS permitting and approval standpoint, the process outlined in Hydro One’s BESS Fire Protection Risk & Response Assessment Standard (FPRRAS) is comprehensive. The Standard was specifically developed to address BESS in proximity to Hydro One’s transmission facilities. All BESS proponents are required to provide a self-certification per Appendix 1 of the FPRRAS stating that they have carried out the assessments and that the facility poses no safety or outage risk or unmitigated hazard to Hydro One employees and Hydro One’s transmission system. This self-certification is to be submitted to Hydro One during the commissioning of a BESS facility prior to connecting to the Hydro One-owned transmission system.

How do third-party standards apply to the BESS projects in Ottawa?

The primary authority for the installation and approval of energy storage systems connected to the electrical grid in Ontario is the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA). The ESA administers Part VIII of the Electricity Act and oversees the Ontario Electrical Safety Code (OESC). Inspections under the OESC would be ongoing during construction, with the final inspection completed prior to energization. The electrical permitting process does not include specific BESS requirements.

What is NFPA 855?

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is an international non-profit organization that promotes safety standards, education, and training on fire and electrical-related hazards. NFPA 855 is the Standard for the Installation of Stationary Energy Storage Systems, which serves as a guideline for Canadian fire departments. This standard outlines processes for training, pre-incident planning, hazard mitigation analysis, testing, decommissioning, and post-incident handover procedures to the energy storage system owner. Conditions set in NFPA 855 are required according to the Hydro One Standard’s Section 5.0 Minimum Design Documentation, specifically in the Hazard Mitigation Analysis, which includes the Fault Condition Assessment. However, mandatory permitting and inspections are set by the Hydro One Standard (not NFPA 855).

What is UL 9540?

UL 9540 is the North American safety standard for energy storage systems, which was developed by Underwriters Laboratories (UL). Both the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the Standards Council of Canada (SCC) have approved UL 9540. OESC mandates UL 9540 certification, so this would be regulated in the electrical safety code. The Hydro One Standard also requires proof of compliance with UL 9540.

What is UL 9540A?

UL 9540A is a method for evaluating thermal runaway and sets out requirements for battery management systems (BMS), including battery safety, performance, and communications protocols. This standard was developed to verify the effectiveness of protection levels against thermal runaway and fire hazards. The OESC mandates UL 9540A certification so this would be regulated in the electrical safety code. The Hydro One Standard also requires proof of compliance with UL 9540A.

How will Ottawa Fire Services respond to a fire incident involving a BESS system?

Ottawa Fire Services (OFS) develops emergency response plans based upon the occupancy and hazards specific to each location, creating standardized response protocols that address these needs. Prevention through early detection and suppression mitigation is the primary response. In the rare event of a fire emergency, OFS’ tactical priorities are focused on addressing any threat to life, reducing property loss, and mitigating environmental impacts. Fire suppression efforts will centre on preventing the spread of fire, with specialized air monitoring conducted throughout the event.

Will water be used to respond to a fire incident involving a BESS system?

Automated prevention and suppression systems aim to mitigate the potential for a fire. In the event of a fire, fire tactics will primarily focus on protecting exposures to prevent the spread of flames. Each site will be assessed on a case-by-case basis to determine the appropriate water supply requirements, which may include municipal water supply, on-site storage reservoirs, or the installation of dry or remote hydrant systems.

AIs there risk of groundwater contamination due to runoff if water is used to respond to a BESS fire?

The risk of groundwater contamination from firefighting water runoff during a BESS fire is estimated to be minimal. Most contaminants will burn off, with safety monitored throughout the event and appropriate actions taken to protect the public if necessary. As with similar incidents involving the risk of contaminated liquids reaching the soil, the situation will be evaluated, and a cleanup service will be secured if needed. These considerations will also be factored into the site plan approval process, with a focus on prevention and mitigation strategies to further minimize environmental risks.

I Support BESS in South March

I support the development of Battery Energy Storage Systems in my community as a vital step toward building a sustainable and reliable energy future. These systems will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance grid efficiency, and bring long-term benefits to both the environment and local residents. I believe in prioritizing clean, innovative solutions that ensure energy security for generations to come, provided they adhere to all municipal regulations and safety requirements.