Title
Consider and take action on a resolution authorizing a contract with Hazard Dynamics for Plume Modeling related to Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), in an amount not to exceed $125,000 with the option to renew for two years at a rate of $75,000 per year (Director of Planning)
Background:
Approval of this resolution will authorize the award of a professional service contract with Hazard Dynamics for Plume Modeling services related to BESS sites and provide an option to renew the contract for two years.
To determine the potential toxic risk to those in proximity to the BESS, including responding firefighters, a plume analysis shall is required as part of the Special Use Permit application. The plume analysis shall utilize appropriate modeling to evaluate worst-case scenarios with varying weather conditions and toxic gas release rates. The plume study shall address toxicity hazards based on toxic gases expected to be released based on gas composition measurements from the cell and module level testing pursuant to UL9540A or other testing. The plume analysis shall include battery failures with both flaming and non-flaming scenarios. These scenarios should be based on results from relevant tests such as UL 9540A tests and include modeling of a full propagation event involving an entire BESS enclosure.
Model assumptions, techniques, results, and a summary document shall be provided in a report. The city shall commission the plume model and all costs incurred by the City shall be reimbursed by the BESS applicant.
Because this is a professional service, a formal bid is not required. The city did reach out to three companies who provide cost estimates for plume modeling (see below), and Hazard Dynamics was the lowest price.
Quotes Received:
Hazard Dynamics - $23,000
CTEH - $35,000
Fire Risk Alliance - $35,000
Attachments:
1. Proposed Resolution
2. Exhibit A - Agreement with Hazard Dynamics
CONTRACT ORIGINATION:
Planning Department
FUNDING
{X} Requires a future budget amendment to increase Planning Contractual Services Account 3700000-53490 by $75,000 in FY2024 and $75,000 in FY2025; with developer revenue applied to General Fund Reimbursement Account 0100-44540.
STRATEGIC PLANNING
{X} Addresses Strategic Planning Critical Success Factor # 8: Quality Built Enivornment