'I wouldn't want people to think we're not alive to all these risks'

Fire chiefs repond to "growing safety fears over battery energy storage sites as planning applications keep coming

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SENIOR firefighters in Staffordshire are being trained on how to manage incidents involving battery energy storage systems as more planning applications for the developments come forward.

Fire risks associated with the systems have sparked concerns for residents and councillors alike, in areas where proposals are coming forward to increase capacity for renewable energy generation.

Chief fire officer, Rob Barber, below, gave details of Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service's response to the surge in battery energy storage system plans at this month's fire performance meeting.

As well as advising developers on fire safety aspects, the service is working to ensure its staff are able to respond to any future incidents involving the technology.

Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Ben Adams, who described battery energy storage systems as a "key community issue", said: "I was at a very well-attended parish council meeting in Stowe by Chartley where they have some concerns about applications.