Mayor Adams Launches Initiative to Combat Lithium-Ion Battery Fires

On Monday, July 22nd, Mayor Eric Adams launched the New York City Safe Charging Accelerator Program to prevent deadly lithium-ion battery fires and ensure safe e-bike usage. The initiative involves the Department of Transportation (DOT) expediting approvals for installing e-bike battery swapping and charging cabinets on public sidewalks. Additionally, a $2 million trade-in program for unsafe e-bikes and batteries will be launched, and the Fire Department of New York (FDNY) will initiate a $1 million public education campaign.

“When used correctly, e-bikes are a convenient, low-cost transportation option that reduce congestion and emissions, and tens of thousands of delivery workers rely on them every day,” said Mayor Adams. “But too often, those bikes are powered by unsafe, uncertified batteries that at any minute could combust. That is why we are doing everything in our power to put a stop to these deadly fires and make use of safe lithium-ion batteries more affordable.”

At the announcement, FDNY Commissioner Laura Kavanagh emphasized the dangers of lithium-ion batteries. “The reality is that lithium-ion batteries can be dangerous even if they are certified, and even if they are not charging. We implore every user of a device with a lithium-ion battery to closely review this campaign and see for yourselves the deadly and destructive fires the device in your home may cause,” she stated.

The program will facilitate the installation of safe outdoor charging infrastructure. Property owners will soon be able to apply for permits to install battery swapping and charging cabinets on sidewalks. The FDNY will also hire additional staff to expedite safety inspections and approvals. Furthermore, the city will host a public hearing on the new rules on August 21st, with applications opening at the end of 2024.

Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Philip Banks III highlighted the urgency of these measures. “The fact of the matter is that deaths caused by lithium-ion battery fires are preventable. We should not be losing any lives to this, and these efforts will go a long, long way toward getting us to that goal of zero.”

The trade-in program will allow food delivery workers to replace unsafe e-bikes and batteries with certified, high-quality versions. Participants will receive a UL-certified e-bike and two compatible UL-certified batteries in exchange for their unsafe devices and batteries. This initiative aims to reduce fire risks, help compliance with local and state laws, and encourage the use of safer e-mobility options.

FDNY’s public education campaign will use $1 million to raise awareness about the risks of lithium-ion batteries. Ads will be placed in high-incidence neighborhoods and will include safety tips and educational materials. This campaign follows alarming data showing that 59% of 2023’s lithium-ion battery fires started while batteries were not charging.