Grid-Scale Battery Initial Costs to Rise: OCCTO's New Rules Require 50% Upfront Payment

OCCTO has announced new access rules for grid-scale batteries (BESS) effective April 1, 2026. Security deposits for contract applications will increase to 10% of estimated construction costs. Furthermore, initial payments for construction costs must be at least 50% of the total, even for installment plans. This change aims to prevent grid capacity squatting but will significantly increase the 'initial cash' required, impacting BESS project financing and investment decisions.