Energy Storage FAQ

What is a battery energy storage system?

A battery energy storage system is a collection of battery modules stored inside freight containers that charges directly from the grid when energy is abundant and deploys power back to the grid when it is most needed.

Why lease my land for community-scale battery energy storage?

Battery energy storage provides an excellent opportunity to diversify income from your property by offering higher land lease rates than lease alternatives in truly a passive, long-term lease. We can offer this by using today’s safe and reliable battery technology to provide critical power directly to the grid during its most strained periods, while also leveraging existing electrical infrastructure for cheaper relative grid access costs. Our community-scale projects use less than 8,000 SF and can power the equivalent of approximately 4,000 homes during the grid’s most stressed periods, enhancing grid resilience with an environmentally friendly solution. Community-scale battery energy storage projects, which are smaller than utility-scale battery energy storage projects, allow us to use existing electrical infrastructure for quicker development timelines and lease payments for your property.

How long is a community-scale battery energy storage lease?

We typically lease land with 20 years of guaranteed lease revenue and the ability to extend the lease to 30+ years.

Is my property suitable for community-scale battery energy storage?

If you have a 1+ acre parcel zoned industrial with ¼ acre of dry, largely flat land, we would love to speak with you about how a battery energy storage project could improve your property’s cash flow and long-term resilience. Sundial will evaluate your property based on its proximity to electrical infrastructure (electrical wires, substations, etc.), buildable area and conformance with permitting requirements.

What do I do if I am interested in leasing my land for a battery energy storage project?

Complete the contact us form on the right side of this webpage and a Sundial representative with expertise in your area will contact you.

How much money do I need to invest in a battery energy storage project?

There is no cost to the landowner when leasing land for a battery energy storage project and the project will have a separate electrical meter, so there would be no additional utility billing for your property. We cover all costs associated with engineering, permitting, constructing, insuring and maintaining the project. After the lease expires, the land will be restored to its previous condition at no cost to you.

How much land do I need for a community-scale battery energy storage project?

Community-scale battery energy storage projects typically require less than ¼ acre of unused land. Exact acreage is determined by the land specifics (slope, wetlands, etc.) and grid characteristics of the area.

What will the project look like when it’s constructed?

The storage containers and electrical equipment will be surrounded by a fence with native shrubs and trees planted around the fence for visual screening.

Will the project create odors, toxins or noise?

Sundial’s projects use non-toxic materials and do not create any odors. The BESS will only generate noise equivalent to a dishwasher while operating.

What environmental impact does a battery energy storage project have on the property?

Battery storage aligns with sustainability goals and actively contributes to a greener environment by reducing reliance on fossil fuels. The development process involves adhering to strict local, state and federal environmental regulations and the property will be returned to its prior condition when the lease expires.

Will the battery energy storage installation comply with safety regulations?

Safety is our highest priority in all projects. Our battery energy storage projects meet or exceed all local, state and federal safety standards and regulations.

What maintenance is required and how are repairs handled for a battery energy storage project?

We have 24/7 remote monitoring of the battery system and regular maintenance inspections to ensure safe and optimal performance, at no expense to the landowner.

What measures are in place to address liability concerns and how does insurance coverage work?

During the permitting process we will work with the local permitting and regulatory authorities, including fire departments, to approve our proposed project and provide financial assurances that the land will be returned to its previous condition. Additionally, we work with insurance companies experienced in renewable energy solutions to secure comprehensive coverage for our projects. 

Studies show that properties with renewable energy, including battery energy storage, command higher resale values. The project will be a benefit for the community and your property’s market appeal and value.

Our team handles the entire permitting process, ensuring compliance with all regulations. We have experience working with authorities for project approvals, streamlining the process for a hassle-free installation.

What is the process of working with Sundial Energy?

Sundial Energy will provide you with a Memorandum of Agreement that allows us to begin preliminary diligence with the utility and on your property. During this time, we will provide you with an Option to Lease Agreement which includes the option and lease terms, insurance, real estate taxes and property restoration information. Once we have an Option to Lease Agreement executed, Sundial begins the development process and will keep you informed throughout the process. For a typical project, we anticipate the full development process can take as little as 15 months.