We have opted to install a battery energy storage system in the new house. It will serve as a backup “generator” during power outages, allow us to store solar energy during the day and use it at night, and consume grid power at off-peak times/rates so that we can run the house from the batteries during peak rate periods. My plan was to locate these batteries in the basement mechanical room. A pre-inspection visit from the fire safety inspector has thrown a monkey wrench in the works. New rules went into effect last month that give the fire department jurisdiction over battery placement within the home. Indications are that they will not allow placement in the basement and will require us to locate them in the garage. Our battery system uses a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) chemistry which is extremely safe by comparison to the lithium ion cells used in Tesla cars and power walls which have developed a justifiably spotty safety record. During our meeting with the fire officials, I shared FAA sponsored research of different battery technologies and explained why I believe the data demonstrates that we would actually be safer installing the batteries in a conditioned space rather than a garage which is subject to large temperature swings and increased risk of mechanical damage. Only after the meeting did I realize that I would never get an exception from this new policy because our interests are not aligned. I am interested in reducing the likelihood of a battery fire. The fire department is primarily interested in reducing the risk to fire fighters who are more vulnerable if they have to enter a basement to suppress a fire there. To make a long story short, we will now be installing the batteries in the garage.