Residents and officials in South Orange County are voicing concerns over a proposed battery storage facility near San Juan Capistrano, fearing increased wildfire risks. The project, led by Compass Energy Storage, aims to build a 250-megawatt Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) on 13 acres near homes and schools. At a recent California Energy Commission (CEC) meeting, lasting over 10 hours, many expressed fears about potential fire hazards. San Juan Capistrano Mayor Troy Bourne, who also serves on the Orange County Fire Authority board, highlighted the risks, stating, “We have to recognize that we’re rolling that 1% dice again and again.”
The facility would use lithium-iron-phosphate batteries, which, according to the Voice of OC, can pose fire threats. Despite this, Compass Energy claims the design would contain any fire to a single area. The project, initially rejected by the San Juan Capistrano City Council, is now seeking approval through the CEC’s Opt-In Certification program, which can bypass local rulings.
The CEC, as part of its review process, will conduct an environmental impact assessment and continue to gather public input. The CEC has emphasized the importance of safety in BESS development, with new protocols being introduced to enhance safety standards.
A second public meeting is scheduled for June 3, allowing further community feedback. The CEC’s decision will follow the completion of the environmental review and public comment process later this year.
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