Battery energy storage systems, often referred to as BESS, are becoming a more common part of electric system planning across Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and Montana. As electricity demand grows and the region plans for aging infrastructure, changing weather patterns, and the need to keep power reliable and affordable, local governments will be asked to evaluate more BESS projects.

This toolkit is designed to help local elected officials, planning commissioners, staff, emergency responders, and community leaders understand what BESS is, what questions to ask, and how to evaluate projects using clear information, applicable standards, and local priorities.

BESS Toolkit: A Local Leader’s Guide
How to navigate the toolkit, ask the right questions, and evaluate projects with confidence

What is BESS and How Does It Work?
An overview of what BESS is and how utilities use BESS to manage the electric system

BESS Opportunities and Challenges
Why BESS is becoming more common and what local leaders should consider

What BESS Enables
How BESS manages energy demand, supports reliability, maximizes resource use, and supports PNW economies

BESS Technology and Evolution
How BESS technology has safely evolved to become part of modern grid infrastructure 

BESS Safety Standards
How BESS safety is managed through layers of standards and protections

BESS Siting and Design Considerations
Getting to the right location, design, and community fit

Who’s Involved and What’s Your Role?
A guide to who should be at the table when a BESS project is reviewed

Battery Energy Storage System Decision-Maker Guide
Key questions to consider when evaluating a BESS project

Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Answers to common questions raised in conversations surrounding BESS development

Planning with Confidence: Additional Resources for Local Leaders
Additional information on battery energy storage technology, safety, siting, permitting, and community planning

BESS Acronym and Terms Guide
Common terms used throughout the BESS Toolkit

BESS in Idaho
A practical tool for reliability, affordability, and better use of Idaho’s energy resources

BESS in Montana
A practical tool for reliability, affordability, and better use of Montana’s energy resources

BESS in Oregon
A practical tool for reliability, affordability, and better use of Oregon’s energy resources

BESS in Washington
A practical tool for reliability, affordability, and better use of Washington’s energy resources