The proposed Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at 26 Pearl Street in Bellingham has roots going back to the early years of the COVID-19 pandemic.
2020: RFP Issued During the Pandemic
In 2020, while communities were dealing with lockdowns, remote meetings, and public health uncertainty, the Town of Bellingham issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the lease and development of a town-owned parcel at 26 Pearl Street.
The RFP sought proposals for renewable / clean energy-related use of the property. Because this process unfolded during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, many residents now feel broader public awareness and participation were limited during this early stage.
2020 Special Town Meeting: Voter Authorization
Also in 2020, a Special Town Meeting was held where town voters approved authorizing the Town to move forward with leasing the parcel for energy development purposes.
That Town Meeting vote gave the Town legal authority to negotiate and execute a lease with a selected developer, forming the basis for the agreement that followed.
July 2021: Ground Lease Signed with Zero Point
In July 2021, the Town entered into a long-term ground lease agreement with Zero Point Development for the proposed battery storage project.
The lease granted the developer the right to pursue permitting and development of a Battery Energy Storage System on the town-owned parcel.
Town Attempts to Terminate the Lease
After concerns arose regarding project timing, performance, and community opposition, the Town / Select Board later attempted to terminate the lease.
Zero Point Development challenged that action in court, arguing:
the Town did not have valid grounds to terminate,
the lease remained legally enforceable,
and the developer was not in default.
Court Case Outcome
The court ultimately ruled in favor of the developer on the core lease issue.
As a result:
the lease remained in effect,
the Town remained bound by the agreement,
and the developer retained the right to continue pursuing the project.
2025–2026: Permitting and Special Permit Process
Following the lease dispute, the developer advanced the project into the formal local permitting phase.
Before this project can move forward, the developer must obtain a Special Permit from the Bellingham Zoning Board of Appeals. This is the primary local approval required for the proposed use at this location.
The project may also require review and approvals from:
the Bellingham Planning Board
the Bellingham Board of Health
local Fire / Building officials
the Bellingham Conservation Commission (if applicable)
Massachusetts environmental and safety agencies, if triggered
Because the site is near homes, wetlands, and within the Charles River watershed, residents have raised concerns about:
fire safety and emergency response,
environmental impacts,
runoff and water quality,
neighborhood character,
and quality of life.
Where Things Stand Now
As of April 2026:
the lease remains in effect,
the project has been proposed,
the developer is seeking local approvals,
and the Special Permit process before the Bellingham Zoning Board of Appeals is a critical step that will determine whether the project can proceed.
Residents still have meaningful opportunities to:
attend public hearings,
submit comments,
review project materials,
request additional safety studies,
and advocate for approval, denial, or stronger conditions based on public health, safety, and environmental concerns.