How Early Jurisdiction Review Prevented Permitting Confusion for an Ohio Battery Storage Project

Overview

Some projects are perceived as low-risk from a permitting standpoint — small footprints, minimal environmental impact, and close proximity to existing utility infrastructure. That was the initial expectation for a proposed battery storage site in Ohio.

On paper, the site appeared ideal: compact, strategically located near existing power lines, and seemingly isolated from community concerns. But a deeper look through a Critical Issues Analysis (CIA) revealed that this “straightforward” site hid a complex jurisdictional wrinkle that could have completely derailed the project.

The Challenge

The project site was positioned right on the boundary between a township and an adjoining city. During the initial review, it seemed natural to assume that the township held jurisdictional authority over the project. However, upon engaging directly with township officials, Access NEP team members discovered a key detail that was not apparent in any ordinance or publicly available information.

Because the project was going to connect to the city’s utilities, the parcel itself would first need to be annexed into the city’s boundary. This single consideration entirely shifted which jurisdiction would be responsible for approving the project.

Had this not been identified early, the project team would have spent months preparing documentation and stakeholder strategies for the wrong jurisdiction.

The Approach

Going beyond desktop reviews and public data sources, Access NEP has adopted a proactive approach to analyzing projects. Productive discussions were initiated with the township and city agencies to uncover nuances that weren’t documented in ordinances or land use codes.

This ensured that the project team was working with the right set of agencies, requirements, and expectations from the outset.

The Outcome

• Jurisdictional conflict identified and resolved before formal permitting began
  
  
• Accurate permitting pathway established, avoiding costly rework
  
  
• Project schedule and community relationships protected through proactive engagement

The Takeaway

Not every project risk is found in standard ordinances or permitting guidelines. Hidden jurisdictional boundaries and infrastructure dependencies can create unexpected challenges. 

Taking the analysis a step beyond the desktop, and meaningfully engaging with local authorities early in the process, is necessary to uncover critical permitting requirements that would otherwise lead to major confusion and delays.