TX SB1825

State fire marshal must adopt and periodically update fire safety standards and testing requirements for battery energy storage facilities, based on UL Solutions model codes (such as UL 9540A) and National Fire Protection Association standards (such as NFPA 855)

Battery operators and municipally owned utilities must ensure their storage facilities meet state fire marshal standards at interconnection, and municipalities/counties are prohibited from adopting fire safety regulations inconsistent with state standards

Municipalities or counties may request independent third-party evaluations of battery storage facilities before commercial operations, paid for by the battery operator, with written reports identifying any compliance deficiencies

Battery operators must conduct fire safety inspections every three years by independent engineers, evaluating structural integrity, maintenance schedules, hazard mitigation, monitoring procedures, and ventilation systems

Operators must develop site-specific emergency operations plans including hazard identification, shutdown procedures, communication protocols with first responders, and safety protocols for residents, properties, and the environment, and must offer free annual training to local first responders

Requirements apply to battery energy storage facilities with interconnection approved on or after January 1, 2027, with the act taking effect September 1, 2025