What is the Oakham Conservation Commission's stance on the proposed battery facility?

The Oakham Conservation Commission, including member Shawn Seeley, strongly opposes the proposed 180-megawatt lithium-ion battery storage facility, citing concerns about contamination of the Ware River Watershed and Quabbin Reservoir system that provides drinking water for millions.

How does the Oakham fire chief feel about the project?

Oakham fire chief Tim Howe has spoken out against the proposed battery facility, stating that the town's first responders lack the resources to adequately respond to any potential emergencies at the site.

What is the status of Oakham's local bylaws regarding such facilities?

Despite Oakham having a local bylaw prohibiting these types of projects, new state regulations have overridden the community's ability to block the battery facility proposal, leaving some residents feeling powerless to stop it.

Home / Environment / Oakham Residents Mobilize to Protect Drinking Water from Proposed Battery Facility

Oakham Residents Mobilize to Protect Drinking Water from Proposed Battery Facility

25 Oct, 2025

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Summary

Proposed 180-megawatt lithium-ion battery storage facility near Ware River Watershed
Concerns about contamination of drinking water for millions of Massachusetts residents
Disruption of wetland connectivity and critical wildlife habitats

Oakham Residents Mobilize to Protect Drinking Water from Proposed Battery Facility

As of October 25th, 2025, the town of Oakham is leading the charge against a proposed 180-megawatt lithium-ion battery storage facility that some fear could jeopardize drinking water for millions of Massachusetts residents. The project, planned for a site along Coldbrook Road, is located near the Ware River Watershed, which is part of the critical Quabbin Reservoir system.

Shawn Seeley, an Oakham native and member of the local conservation commission, warns that the facility poses a "safety hazard for the entire state." He explains that the project would disrupt the natural wetland connectivity that filters the region's drinking water as it flows downstream. Seeley, who holds a degree in Environmental Science, says the removal of forests and wetlands in Oakham could have far-reaching impacts on the interconnected landscape relied upon for clean water.