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SB 283

Certification of Motor Carriers; authority of the Department of Public Safety to establish reasonable rates, fares, and charges; repeal

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Lee Anderson and 3 co-sponsors

SB 283 mandates safety consultations and inspections for energy storage systems in California, enhancing fire safety and protecting communities from potential hazards.

Senate Read and Referred
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Bill Summary · SB 283

Summary of SB 283: Energy Storage Systems

Overview

Bill Number: SB 283
Title: Energy Storage Systems
Status: Chaptered by Secretary of State. Chapter 407, Statutes of 2025.
Introduced: February 5, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Energy Storage Systems

SB 283, also known as the Clean Energy Safety Act of 2025, aims to enhance the safety and regulatory framework surrounding energy storage systems in California. The bill introduces new requirements for the certification and approval of energy storage systems, particularly focusing on fire safety measures.

Main Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of SB 283 is to ensure that energy storage systems, particularly those capable of storing significant amounts of energy, are designed and operated with adequate safety measures in place. This includes mandatory consultations with fire suppression authorities and inspections prior to the operation of these systems.

Key Provisions

  1. Certification Requirements:

    • Applications for energy storage systems submitted to the State Energy Resources Conservation and Development Commission (Energy Commission) after January 1, 2026, must include a certification that the applicant has conferred with local fire suppression authorities at least 30 days prior to application submission.
    • Documentation of this consultation must be included in the application, detailing discussions on fire safety concerns and emergency action plans.

  2. Inspection Mandate:

    • The Energy Commission will not certify an energy storage system unless it has been inspected by the fire authority after installation but before commencing operations. The applicant is responsible for the costs associated with this inspection.

  3. Building Standards Review:

    • The Office of the State Fire Marshal is required to review and propose updates to the California Building Standards Code, specifically regarding the location of energy storage systems, recommending that they be situated in noncombustible buildings or outdoor installations.

  4. State-Mandated Local Program:

    • The bill imposes additional duties on local agencies, which qualifies it as a state-mandated local program. However, it specifies that no reimbursement is required for certain mandates.

  5. Statewide Applicability:

    • The bill asserts that the changes address a matter of statewide concern, thereby applying to all cities, including charter cities.

Impact

  • Who is Affected:

    • Energy storage system developers and operators will need to comply with the new certification and inspection requirements. Local fire authorities will also be involved in the consultation and inspection processes.

  • Safety Enhancements:

    • The bill aims to mitigate potential fire hazards associated with energy storage systems, thereby enhancing public safety and reducing risks to communities.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was approved by the Governor on October 6, 2025, and has been chaptered into law. It will take effect for applications submitted after January 1, 2026, allowing time for stakeholders to prepare for the new requirements.

Conclusion

SB 283 represents a significant step towards improving the safety and regulatory oversight of energy storage systems in California. By mandating consultations with fire authorities and requiring inspections, the legislation seeks to protect communities while supporting the growth of energy storage technologies.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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