(a) For any application submitted after January 1, 2026, the commission shall not certify an energy storage system, as described in paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) of Section 25545, pursuant to this chapter,
unless, within 90 days of the project applicant providing notice of completion of installation to the authority that has jurisdiction over fire suppression, but before commencing operations or use of the batteries, the energy storage system is inspected by the authority that has jurisdiction over fire suppression where the system is located. The applicant shall bear the cost of the inspection. The inspector shall be provided a copy of the documentation of the consultation required pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 25545.19 submitted with the application.
(b) If the inspection required pursuant to subdivision (a) has not occurred within 90 days after the notice of completion, the commission may certify or approve for operation the energy storage system.
(c) The commission shall include findings regarding compliance with the requirements of this section in a decision to certify an energy storage system pursuant to Section 25545.1.