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.

Oakham's fire chief, Tim Howe, has also spoken out against the project, stating that the town's first responders lack the resources to adequately respond to any potential emergencies at the facility. Despite Oakham having a local bylaw prohibiting such projects, new state regulations have overridden the community's ability to block the proposal, leaving some residents feeling powerless.

The company behind the plan, Rhynland Energy, claims the facility will meet or exceed all safety standards and have positive environmental impacts by reducing energy emissions. However, Oakham's conservationists argue that the risks to the region's critical water resources and wildlife habitats outweigh any potential benefits.