Energy storage systems.

Senator Laird's Clean Energy Safety Act of 2025 establishes comprehensive safety standards for energy storage systems in California by requiring compliance with National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 855 guidelines. The legislation mandates that the California Building Standards Commission and State Fire Marshal incorporate these standards into state building codes after July 1, 2026.

Under the new requirements, energy storage system applications must certify design compliance with NFPA 855 standards and document consultation with local fire departments at least 30 days before submission. Systems cannot begin operations until passing inspection by local fire departments or State Fire Marshal representatives, with applicants responsible for inspection costs. Energy storage systems exceeding 600 kilowatthours must be located in noncombustible, dedicated-use buildings or as remote outdoor installations.

The bill applies uniformly across all California jurisdictions, including charter cities, reflecting its designation as addressing matters of statewide concern. While local agencies can levy fees to cover implementation costs, the Commission on State Mandates retains authority to determine if additional state reimbursement is warranted for other mandated expenses. These provisions create a standardized regulatory framework for energy storage safety while maintaining flexibility for technological advances through periodic code updates.