249 E. 233rd Street
Battery Storage
Project
Woodlawn, Bronx
Orenda is a New York City-based developer of battery energy storage systems (BESS), with a growing portfolio of projects in the Bronx and across downstate New York.
We're developing a 17.6 MW battery storage system at 249 E. 233rd Street in
Woodlawn. The system will store energy during off-peak hours and dispatch it when energy demand is highest.
This project is part of a statewide program to build the grid of the future. The NY Public Service Commission set a target of 6,000 MW of storage by 2030, projected to save nearly $2 billion. It is funded under state rules for the grid services it provides, plus NYSERDA incentives that aim to site at least half of the program’s capacity in New York City.
Why This Project Is Coming to Woodlawn
More reliable power
with less risk of outages during heat waves and other high-demand days; the site is near four electric feeders
Cleaner air
by reducing the need for the peaker plants that pollute Bronx neighborhoods.
Local investment and union jobs
with more than $50 million invested and workers paid local prevailing wages.
What's Planned Here
The project sits on a vacant commercially-zoned lot at 249 E. 233rd Street. The batteries charge when the grid has power to spare and send it back during the hours when demand peaks. That takes pressure off the grid on the days the Bronx needs it most.
Before construction starts, the project has to clear a multi-agency permitting and safety review led by the FDNY and the Department of Buildings.
17.6 MW
of storage capacity
$1M+
saved by ratepayers each year
Commercial
zoning
Laydown Area
current use
The Safety Requirements Behind This Project
Safety is a primary concern for New Yorkers, and it is Orenda's top priority. Every battery energy storage system (BESS) we develop is designed, tested, certified, and monitored to meet the highest fire-safety standards in the nation.
Built to New York's fire code for BESS
the strictest in the country, written with the FDNY.
Tested and certified before it connects to the grid
including UL 9540A, the large-scale fire test fire officials use to plan their response.
Watched around the clock
by trained staff who can respond right away.
Planned with the FDNY
from permitting through operation, so first responders know the site and the system.
Interested in learning more? Check out our community resources page for more information on safety.
What We've Promised Woodlawn
Our Good Neighbor Pledge applies to every project we build.
For Woodlawn, that means we will:
- Share clear, accurate information about the project with the community and elected officials.
- Respond to questions promptly and follow through on commitments we make.
- Maintain a clean, safe site.
- Fund local initiatives and support community organizations.
Have a question about the project? Contact Emily Helldorfer, Community Engagement Manager, at ehelldorfer@orendapower.com or (917) 329-8259