Property Values

What We Know

The Research Landscape

Property value impacts are one of the most common concerns raised about energy infrastructure projects. Here's what we can say honestly:

• Battery storage is relatively new: unlike solar farms or wind turbines, there is limited long-term data on how battery storage facilities affect nearby property values
• Available studies are emerging: early research from academic institutions and real estate analysts has begun to examine this question, but the data is not yet conclusive
• Context matters: property value impacts, whether positive or negative, depend heavily on proximity, screening, noise, and the overall character of the neighborhood

What Available Data Suggests

From the studies that do exist:

• When developers screen and maintain large-scale energy infrastructure properly, the facilities tend to have minimal measurable impact on nearby property values
• Tax revenue benefits: projects that contribute significantly to the local tax base can support services (schools, roads, public safety) that maintain or enhance community property values
• Perception vs. reality: initial concerns about property values often diminish over time as neighbors become familiar with the actual operational impact, or lack thereof

Our Commitments

While we cannot guarantee property value outcomes, we commit to:

• Transparency — sharing all available research and data with the community
• Design excellence — investing in screening, landscaping, and visual integration to minimize any visual impact
• Community benefits — ensuring the project delivers tangible value to Charlton that supports the community's overall appeal

What We're Still Studying

• Appraisal-based analysis: we are evaluating whether we should conduct a property value impact study for this project
• Comparable project data: we are monitoring other Massachusetts energy storage projects for property value data as it becomes available
• Ongoing research: we are tracking academic and industry research on this topic

What You Can Influence

• Research priorities: if you would value a formal property value study, tell us through Share Your Voice
• Mitigation priorities: share which design features, such as landscaping, fencing, and setbacks, matter most for protecting your property's character
• Community Benefits Plan: we can discuss property value protections or guarantees as part of the CBP negotiation process