San Diego County Board of Supervisors Meeting

Overall Summary

Here's a summary of the key points from the San Diego County Board of Supervisors meeting on Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) facilities:

1. The Board voted 4-1 to approve new policies regulating BESS facilities in unincorporated areas, but rejected a proposed moratorium on new facilities.

2. The approved policies include:
   - Additional requirements for fire suppression technical reports and disclosures
   - Analysis of appropriate residential buffer distances based on plume modeling
   - Requiring technical studies at early planning stages for all BESS projects

3. Public input was heavily skewed against BESS facilities, with 112 comments opposed versus 23 in support.

4. Key concerns from opponents included:
   - Fire risks and toxic gas emissions
   - Proximity to residential areas and critical facilities like hospitals
   - Inadequate regulations for a rapidly evolving technology

5. Supporters emphasized:
   - Importance for renewable energy goals and grid stability
   - Economic benefits and job creation
   - Improved safety features in modern designs

6. Fire Chief Tony Mecham highlighted:
   - Distinction between warehouse-style and containerized facilities
   - Ongoing analysis to develop new safety standards
   - Ability to implement new requirements through "facts and findings" process

7. The Board's decision aims to balance safety concerns with clean energy goals, focusing on strengthening requirements rather than imposing a moratorium.

8. Supervisor Desmond was the lone dissenting vote, pushing for a moratorium on non-containerized facilities.

9. The decision comes in the wake of recent BESS fires, including one in Escondido that prompted evacuations.

10. The Board directed staff to report back within 45 days with an interim update and by December 11th with a full plan for BESS facility regulations.

9/11/24 Transcript Summary of each 15 minute segment

Moment of Silence for 9/11 Remembrance

Today, the San Diego County Board of Supervisors gathered for a moment of silence to remember the lives lost on September 11th, 23 years ago. Chairwoman Vargas announced the observance, highlighting the importance of honoring the courage of First Responders and the responsibility to protect one another in democracy. The supervisors then paused the meeting proceedings at exactly 9:11 am, taking a collective moment to reflect on the tragic events. This poignant gesture underscores the board's commitment to remembering and honoring the past while moving forward with unity and determination.

Non-Agenda Public Comments and Participation

In this segment, the San Diego County Board of Supervisors meeting attendees participate in non-agenda public comments, sharing their concerns and opinions on various issues. Supervisor Desmond participates remotely, stating his availability and absence of anyone under or over 18 years old in the room. The first speaker, Kendra, discusses the overlapping evacuation zones and the impact of thermal runaway emergencies on the community. Other speakers bring up different topics, including animal cruelty, environmental concerns, and business permit issues. The segment also includes a moment of silence and a reminder of the rules of procedure for public comments.

Government Accountability and Community Engagement

The main agenda item discussed in this segment of the 9-11-24 County of San Diego Board of Supervisors Meeting revolves around government accountability and community engagement. The topics of discussion include the need for government accountability, public comments on various issues, and the importance of community engagement. Speakers highlighted

the issue of air pollution and its impact on the environment and human health, as well as
the need for government action to address these concerns.
Additionally, there were calls for greater transparency and accountability from government officials, as well
as the need for more community involvement in decision-making processes.

Collaboration and Synergy in Addressing Public Health Crisis

The key points discussed in this segment highlight the importance of collaboration and synergy among agencies in addressing the public health crisis in the South County region. Chairwoman Vargas emphasized the role of the San Diego County Public Health Department in responding to the hydrogen cyanide reports, working alongside the Air Pollution Control District, California Department of Public Health, EPA, and CDC. Dr. Kakan shared the department's efforts to deploy a hazardous incident response team, collect samples, and provide accurate readings. Supervisor Montgomery Step acknowledged the root of the problem as the infrastructure of the sewage plant and emphasized the need for synergy among agencies to address the issue.

Concerns over Air Quality and Health Risks

The speaker expresses deep concerns over the impact of air quality on the health and well-being of their family, including children who suffer from headaches and stomach aches due to the sewage smell in the community. They urge the board to take immediate action, including declaring a state of emergency and bringing in FEMA, to address this critical issue.

Voice of Concern: Residents Demand Action on South Bay Beaches

Residents of the South Bay area expressed their frustration and concern about the ongoing sewage crisis, which has kept their beaches closed for over 10,000 days. They demanded action from the Board of Supervisors, calling for a focus on public health and safety over administrative hurdles. Speakers shared personal stories of health issues and quality of life impacts, urging the board to prioritize the needs of residents and the environment. Despite initial denials of health risks, residents appealed to the board to take concrete steps towards resolving the crisis and restoring their community's beaches and environment.

Unaddressed Public Health Crisis in Imperial Beach

The supervisor for a district in San Diego County discussed the ongoing public health crisis in Imperial Beach, emphasizing the alarming air pollution levels and the lack of sufficient resources to address the issue. The supervisor highlighted the county's efforts to provide air filters to residents, but emphasized the need for continued support and action to address the crisis, which has been declared a public health emergency. The supervisor also mentioned the challenges in gathering accurate data on air pollution and the importance of working with universities and other organizations to share information and develop solutions.

Public Health Data and Stakeholder Outreach

The main issue discussed is the lack of raw data on health studies related to Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) projects, making it challenging for the public health department to take appropriate action. The supervisor emphasized the need for transparency and collaboration among agencies, researchers, and the community, and requested that stakeholders provide the necessary information to ensure everyone is on the same page.

Enhancing Safety Standards for Battery Energy Storage Systems

The main idea discussed in the selected segment is the need for enhanced safety standards for Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) in San Diego County. The County Fire has implemented new safety measures, including requiring technical fire suppression reports and developing a plan for residential buffer distances. The Board of Supervisors is considering a moratorium on new BESS projects until comprehensive sighting standards and regulations are established. The stakeholders, including community members and industry professionals, have provided feedback on the safety concerns and benefits of BESS facilities, highlighting the need for technological advancements, job creation, and public input in the planning process.

Balancing Safety and Renewable Energy in Battery Energy Storage Systems

The speakers discussed the need for a moratorium on new Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) projects, particularly those located in residential areas, due to safety concerns. They emphasized the importance of balancing the need for clean energy with the risks posed by BESS facilities, citing the recent fire at a lithium-ion battery facility in Escondido as an example. The speakers also highlighted the need for stricter regulations, including a forensic audit of existing projects and the development of guidelines for siting and construction. While some speakers acknowledged the importance of BESS for renewable energy and sustainability, they stressed that safety must be the top priority.

Resident Concerns Over Battery Energy Storage Facilities

Residents voiced concerns over the proposed battery energy storage facilities, citing safety risks and environmental impact. Phyllis Lerman, a resident of Eden Valley, urged the Board of Supervisors to impose a moratorium on new facilities, highlighting the lack of consideration for residential areas and the influence of industry lobbying. Other residents, including Miriam Candel and Jan Laak, echoed these concerns, emphasizing the need for regulations and safer locations. The residents also criticized the marketing claims of AES and other corporations, calling for proof of safety and reliability in commercial areas before allowing facilities in residential areas.

Cleaning the Air vs. Safety Concerns: Balancing Act for Battery Energy Storage Systems

The discussion surrounding the moratorium on battery energy storage systems (BESS) facilities in San Diego County highlights the need to balance the benefits of clean energy with public safety concerns. AES supports the comprehensive renewable energy plan, but opposes the moratorium, fearing it will create unnecessary barriers to the rapid deployment of renewable energy infrastructure. Experts argue that fire suppression and emergency response plans are crucial, but over-regulation could hinder the transition to clean energy. As stakeholders weigh in, concerns about environmental justice, workforce standards, and the need for accurate information about BESS facilities' safety records dominate the conversation.

County Supervisors Debate on Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)

In this segment, the San Diego County Board of Supervisors discuss the potential risks and benefits of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) projects. The speakers argue over the need for a moratorium on these projects, with some citing concerns about fire safety, environmental impact, and community engagement, while others emphasize the importance of clean energy and economic development.

Balancing Renewable Energy with Public Safety

The speakers debated the need for a moratorium on new Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) projects, particularly those located in residential areas, citing concerns over public health and safety. While some argued that BESS projects are necessary for supporting renewable energy resources and reducing reliance on polluting power plants, others emphasized the importance of prioritizing public health and safety. The speakers pointed to the risks associated with BESS fires, including the potential for toxic emissions and the need for effective fire suppression measures. The discussion highlighted the ongoing challenge of balancing the need for clean energy with the safety concerns of residents, and the need for careful consideration of these issues in the approval process for new BESS projects.

Assessing Fire Risks and Buffer Distances for Battery Energy Storage Systems

The discussion revolves around the potential fire hazards and residential buffer distances for Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) facilities in San Diego County. The fire chief and staff emphasize the distinction between containerized and warehouse-style facilities, highlighting the latter's increased fire risks due to the sheer number of batteries and proximity to other batteries. The conversation also touches on the need for a residential buffer zone to mitigate potential toxic exposure and explosion hazards. Supervisor Montgomery-Step proposes a motion to analyze and develop a plan for appropriate residential buffer distances based on plume modeling, aiming to address community concerns and ensure public safety.

Clarifying Technical Study Requirements for Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)

The discussion centered around the technical study requirements for Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) facilities, specifically regarding the implementation of new standards and regulations. Supervisor Desmond raised concerns about the lack of transparency and regulation surrounding BESS facilities, pointing out that 90% of them are approved by the California Public Utility Commission rather than the county. The supervisors debated the need for a moratorium on new BESS projects, with some advocating for stricter regulations and others opposing it. The motion proposed by Supervisor Anderson was modified to include a moratorium on non-containerized BESS facilities and required technical studies to be done by licensed fire protection engineers, while also ensuring compliance with the 2023 National Fire Protection Association standards.

Fine-Tuning Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) Regulation

The supervisors discussed the need for a moratorium on new BESS projects in residential areas and the importance of ensuring the public's safety. Chairwoman Vargas emphasized the importance of flexibility in the approach to BESS, citing the varying topography and environmental conditions in different areas. Supervisor Anderson expressed concerns about the potential for fire hazards and suggested including the Battery Energy Storage System Association in the review process. The supervisors also discussed the technical study and its timeline, with staff recommending a single battery approach to analyze hazards, and the need for clarification on the intent of the motion, including its application to existing projects. Supervisor Desmond voted against the motion, citing concerns about the warehouse type of BESS facilities.

Summary of BESS Facility Discussion

Here's a summary of the discussion on Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) facilities and each participant's key contributions:

Staff Presentation:
- Provided background on BESS projects in the county and recent fire incidents
- Outlined options for the Board to consider, including potential moratoriums
- Described stakeholder feedback and safety considerations

Public Comments:
- Supporters emphasized BESS importance for renewable energy goals and grid stability
- Opponents raised safety concerns, especially for facilities near residential areas
- Many called for a moratorium or stricter regulations on BESS projects

Supervisor Vargas (Chair):
- Emphasized importance of BESS for clean energy goals but need to ensure safe deployment
- Supported strengthening safety standards rather than imposing a moratorium
- Added language to require technical studies at earliest planning stages

Supervisor Lawson-Remer (Vice Chair):
- Proposed motion to approve recommendations 1-3, reject 4-5, and add new recommendation
- Called for analysis of appropriate residential buffer distances within 45 days
- Emphasized need to address concerns quickly through fire code rather than zoning process

Supervisor Desmond:
- Pushed for including a moratorium on non-containerized BESS facilities
- Raised concerns about rebuilding of Gateway facility that had major fire
- Ultimately voted against final motion due to lack of moratorium

Supervisor Anderson:
- Emphasized need for flexibility as technology changes
- Suggested considering ongoing education/training requirements
- Raised issue of cost recovery for extended fire response

Supervisor Montgomery Steppe:
- Supported motion on floor as balancing stakeholder input and need for quick action
- Asked clarifying questions about process and timeline

Chief Mecham (Fire Chief):
- Explained ongoing analysis and development of new safety standards
- Described ability to implement new requirements through "facts and findings" process
- Estimated timeline for completing analysis and coordinating with other fire agencies

The Board ultimately passed a motion (4-1) to strengthen safety requirements and conduct further analysis on residential buffers, rather than impose an immediate moratorium. The motion included requirements for technical studies at early planning stages for all BESS projects.

Staff Presentation Details

Certainly. Here's a more detailed breakdown of the staff presentation on Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) facilities:

1. Background:

- BESS became a new technology about a decade ago
- Initial projects like Gateway Energy Storage in Otay Mesa (250 MW) were built before specific regulations were developed
- Recent fire incidents at BESS facilities in Valley Center and Escondido were discussed

2. Current Regulations:

- BESS projects must now comply with more robust regulations, including:

- Consolidated Fire Code
- California Building Standards Code
- National Electrical Code

3. Board Directions and Staff Response:

- Staff researched options to increase safety as directed by the Board
- Developed options for immediate action, including potential temporary prohibitions or urgency measures

4. Potential Actions:

- Presented options for temporary pause on new BESS applications
- Discussed possibility of prohibiting specific types of BESS, such as non-containerized systems
- Noted limitations on adopting interim standards like location criteria or setbacks without formal ordinance amendments

5. Future Plans:

- San Diego County Fire to engage a fire protection engineer to research best practices
- Analysis expected to be completed by end of the year
- Results to be considered for future fire code updates

6. BESS Technologies:

- Explained different types of BESS: containerized vs. non-containerized
- Discussed emerging technologies and industry trends

7. Review Process:

- Outlined current review process for different types of BESS projects
- Explained limitations on changing review process for already completed applications

8. Stakeholder Engagement:

- Reported on feedback from community members, BESS developers, experts, and other stakeholders
- Highlighted concerns about safety, quality of life impacts, and calls for moratorium from some community members
- Noted support from industry professionals and labor unions for BESS projects

9. Recommendations:

- Presented options for Board consideration, including:

- Continuing technical study requirements
- Possible 45-day pause on new BESS applications
- Potential pause on non-containerized BESS applications

10. Next Steps:

- If adopted, staff would return on October 23rd with option to extend temporary pause
- Outlined plans for continued stakeholder outreach and development of interim zoning standards

The presentation aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of the BESS situation in the county, addressing both the potential benefits and safety concerns, while outlining possible regulatory approaches for the Board to consider.

Fire Chief's Input:

Here's a more detailed account of Fire Chief Tony Mecham's input during the discussion:

1. Warehouse vs. Containerized Facilities:

- Emphasized a clear distinction between warehouse-style and containerized BESS facilities
- Explained that warehouse facilities present significant problems due to the large number of batteries in close proximity
- Noted containerized systems are smaller, with greater separation, making them easier to manage in fire situations

2. Current Projects: - Stated all 10 BESS projects currently in the entitlement process are proposed to be containerized

3. Technical Study:

- Mentioned a recently enacted requirement for technical studies
- Expects these studies to further support the safety advantages of containerized designs

4. Fire Code Implementation:

- Explained that while the fire code is typically updated every 3 years (next update in 2026), they can implement new safety requirements sooner
- Described the ability to make "facts and findings" based on technical studies, allowing enforcement of new requirements before the official code update

5. Timeline for New Standards:

- Anticipates receiving the consultant's technical report in early October
- Aims to implement new standards as soon as possible, potentially by early January
- Noted the need to coordinate with other fire agencies serving unincorporated areas, which could affect the timeline

6. Setbacks and Dispersion Models:

- Acknowledged the importance of adequate setbacks for BESS facilities
- Explained the need for dispersion models to understand potential toxic fume spread
- Highlighted factors affecting dispersion, including air density, temperature, and ambient conditions

7. Current Evacuation Practices:

- Admitted current evacuation areas may be larger than necessary due to lack of technical understanding
- Aims to use data from technical studies to make more informed decisions on evacuation zones

8. Application to Existing Projects:

- Confirmed that new safety requirements, once established, will apply to projects currently in the entitlement process
- Stated all applicants have been notified that they will be subject to additional requirements based on the upcoming technical study

9. Peer Review Process: Emphasized that County Fire will peer-review any technical studies submitted by applicants

10. Flexibility and Ongoing Assessment:

- Stressed the importance of being able to adapt standards as technology evolves
- Expressed openness to incorporating suggestions like continuing education requirements and improved emergency response plans

Chief Mecham's input focused on balancing safety concerns with practical implementation, emphasizing the fire department's commitment to developing and enforcing appropriate safety standards for BESS facilities based on the best available technical information.

Public Input

Here's an approximate count of pro and con input on BESS facilities:

BESS Public Input to SDC BoS Meeting 9/11
	Contributor Count
Comment Source	Pro	Con	Neutral
In-person speakers	8	17	0
Phone callers	6	15	0
E-comments	9	80	3
Total count	23	112	3

It's important to note that these numbers are based on the information provided in the summary and may not capture every single speaker or comment. The e-comment numbers in particular show a significant skew towards opposition to BESS facilities. Overall, there were substantially more voices expressing concerns or opposition to BESS facilities than those in support. Note that of the 12 BESS supporters, 6 represent AES, the designer and implementer of the BESS facilities. On the other hand, all 12 of the CONs represent county residents who may be dismissed as NIMBYs

Here's a list of key pro and con BESS input providers and their main points:

Pro-BESS:

Here are the main in person supporters of going ahead with BESS facilities. :

Jason Anderson (Cleantech San Diego): - BESS critical for renewable energy goals and regional economy
Karen Little-Bonine (AES): - Supports strengthening standards but opposes moratorium
Sarah Carroll (Renewable energy developer): - BESS necessary for grid reliability and meeting California requirements
Luke Rogers (AES): - Emphasized overall safety record of BESS facilities in San Diego County
Serena Pelka (Climate Action Campaign): - BESS crucial for keeping lights on during heat waves, environmental justice
Justin Castels (San Marcos resident): - BESS necessary for transition away from fossil fuels
Cory Schumacher (IBEW 569): - Opposed moratorium, urged workforce standards for new BESS projects
Tanya Martinez (AES): - Highlighted decreasing incident rates despite increased BESS deployment
Teresa Carroll (AES): - Committed to meeting or exceeding latest safety standards
David Stimson (AES): - Emphasized economic benefits and grid stability from BESS projects
Kenya Zamora (San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce): - Supported BESS for economic and energy resilience reasons
Victoria Boyd (AES): - Argued moratorium would undermine county's climate action plans

Con-BESS:

Kendra Kilia: Concerned about evacuation zones overlapping vital services
Ashley Roberts: Called for moratorium to create comprehensive policy and safety measures
JP Theberge (Representing residents): Worried about BESS placement in residential areas instead of industrial sites
Douglas Dill (San Dieguito Planning Group): Supported moratorium, requested ban in residential/agricultural zones
Joe Ramirez (Former energy project developer): Urged regulations specifying minimum distances from homes/schools
Michelle Ulete (Escondido resident): Shared concerns about recent fire and evacuation challenges
Andy Laderman (Eden Valley resident): Supported moratorium to drive safer technologies
Phyllis Laderman (Eden Valley resident): Called for rules regarding BESS location and residential impact
Miriam Khand (Escondido resident): Urged moratorium on BESS in residential areas
Jan Laka (Harmony Grove resident): Called for proving BESS safety in commercial areas before residential
Stephanie Baxter (Fallbrook Community Planning Group): Highlighted concerns about BESS facilities adjacent to residential areas
Lorie Zapf: Suggested focusing on small-scale, on-site batteries as alternatives

This list represents a sample of the diverse perspectives presented during the public input session, showcasing the range of arguments both for and against BESS projects in San Diego County.

County Superisor Positions and Votes

Based on the discussion, here are the recommendations that were considered:

1. Direct the continuation of new fire technical study requirements implemented in July 2023.
2. Affirm prior direction to continue technical study requirements detailing proposed fire safety properties of the design, operation, and use of BESS facilities.
3. Direct the continued requirement of the recently implemented new technical study prepared by a fire protection engineer which details proposed fire safety properties of the design, operation, and use, and require these studies to be included at the earliest planning review stage for all discretionary BESS facilities, along with other project applicant packages.
4. (Rejected) Adopt an urgency ordinance establishing a 45-day moratorium on the acceptance of new BESS applications.
5. (Rejected) Adopt an urgency ordinance establishing a 45-day moratorium on the acceptance of new BESS applications that are not containerized and do not follow the 2023 National Fire Protection Association 855 guidelines.
6. (Added) Direct the Chief Administrative Officer to have the County Fire Chief analyze appropriate residential buffer distances based on plume modeling and develop a plan for battery energy storage system facilities. Report back to the board in 45 days with an interim update and return to the board by December 11th with a full plan.

The Board approved recommendations 1, 2, 3 (with amendments), and 6, while rejecting recommendations 4 and 5.

Here are the details of the motions and votes by each supervisor:

1. Main Motion (by Vice Chair Lawson-Remer):
- Approve recommendations 1, 2, and 3
- Reject recommendations 4 and 5
- Add new recommendation 6: Direct the Chief Administrative Officer to have the County Fire Chief analyze appropriate residential buffer distances based on plume modeling and develop a plan for BESS facilities. Report back to the board in 45 days with an interim update and by December 11th with a full plan.

2. Substitute Motion (by Supervisor Desmond):
- Include recommendation 5 (45-day moratorium on non-containerized BESS facilities and projects inconsistent with 2023 National Fire Protection Association 855 standards)
- This motion failed due to lack of a second

3. Amendment to Main Motion (by Chair Vargas):
- Added language to recommendation 3 to require technical studies at the earliest planning review stage for all BESS facilities

Final Vote on Amended Main Motion:
- Supervisor Anderson: Yes
- Supervisor Montgomery Steppe: Yes
- Supervisor Desmond: No
- Vice Chair Lawson-Remer: Yes
- Chair Vargas: Yes

The motion passed 4-1.

Key positions:
- Vargas: Supported strengthening safety standards without a moratorium
- Lawson-Remer: Proposed main motion focusing on quick action through fire code
- Desmond: Pushed for moratorium on non-containerized facilities, voted against final motion
- Anderson: Supported motion, emphasized need for flexibility and ongoing assessment
- Montgomery Steppe: Supported motion as balancing stakeholder input and quick action

The final approved motion focused on strengthening safety requirements, conducting further analysis on residential buffers, and requiring technical studies at early planning stages for all BESS projects, rather than imposing an immediate moratorium.

Published September 11, 2024 at 3:39 PM PDT

Following last week's lithium battery fire at an Escondido storage facility that prompted evacuation orders and warnings, county supervisors on Wednesday approved policies regulating the approval and operation of future energy-storage sites in unincorporated areas, but stopped short of imposing a moratorium on new facilities.

The Board of Supervisors, on a 4-1 vote, approved additional requirements for fire suppression technical reports and/or disclosures to ensure new battery energy storage systems (BESS) go "above and beyond" current code requirements.

The board's vote came after lengthy public hearing and discussion among the supervisors themselves on how to regulate battery energy storage systems, which some residents have criticized as dangerous to their communities.

Supervisors also nixed a proposal that would have required new BESS facilities to use modular designs within an enclosure, and have projects follow National Fire Protection Association guidelines.

Based on an amendment from board Vice Chair Terra Lawson-Remer, the county fire chief will instead "analyze appropriate residential buffer distances based on plume modeling and develop a plan for battery energy storage systems facilities." The chief is expected to update the board within 45 days.

In a statement, Lawson-Remer said battery storage infrastructure "is necessary for us to meet our climate goals, but these facilities must be sited and built in ways that protect the health and safety of our residents."

"After the recent fires, I listened to resident concerns and developed an approach that will establish safeguards to keep residents safe while allowing for climate-friendly battery storage to continue to be built," she added.

Board Chairwoman Nora Vargas said while public safety was vital, battery storage facilities are an important renewable energy source, and imposing a moratorium on such projects "may not be the best approach."

She said rather than halting such facilities, the county should approve best practices, including fire suppression plans, she added.

Saying he couldn't support any policy change without a pause on non-container facilities, Supervisor Jim Desmond — who was recovering from an illness and participated via teleconference — voted no.

Supervisor Joel Anderson said in a statement that as an elected official representing communities facing extreme fire risk, "it is important that (the board) move forward with the highest and safest standards in the nation in order to protect our residents."

Before making their decision, supervisors heard from numerous residents in favor of a moratorium.

Stephani Baxter, a Fallbrook Community Planning Group member, said there are two BESS projects in her community, one of which is near a watershed. She described them not only as a noise nuisance, but also the cause of light pollution and lowered property values.

"If this is truly about conservation and sustainability, I wonder where the environmental advocacy groups are for such a precious watershed," Baxter added.

Opponents said a moratorium would result in lost jobs and damage the county's overall climate action goals. Serena Pelka, a policy advocate with the Climate Action Campaign, said BESS facilities helped prevented blackouts during a summer of high temperatures in the county.

"Keeping the lights on saves lives, and keeps our economy stable," Pelka said. "The board has to ask itself, what is the human-health cost if we stop building battery storage in our region?"

The Wednesday agenda item had already scheduled for the board, but gained more urgency following the Thursday afternoon fire at the San Diego Gas & Electric facility in Escondido.

The fire was allowed to burn out by itself — per industry standard, a statement from the Escondido Fire Department read. Just one of the site's 24 cells caught fire.

While no one was injured by the fire, evacuation orders were issued to businesses in the largely industrial part of the city.

Some residents backed the idea of a moratorium.

"Area residents are renewing their call for the county to issue a moratorium on building new lithium battery storage facilities in neighborhoods," according to a statement issued last week by a group of residents, including JP Theberge of the Elfin Forest Harmony Grove Town Council and Joe Rowley, a retired engineer and battery storage facility developer.

"The Escondido battery fire is unfolding in an industrial area away from homes and residences. However, it reinforces the concerns of residents that a project that is 10 times larger (the Seguro project) is being proposed, which would be surrounded by hundreds of homes and upwind from a hospital in northern San Diego County, near Escondido," they wrote. "Despite the current fire being in an industrial area, hundreds of businesses were evacuated and many more were told to shelter-in-place. Schools located downwind were closed today as well."

Had supervisors passed a moratorium, it could have frozen the proposed AES' Seguro storage project in Escondido, not far from where Thursday's fire took place. The project would be capable of storing up to 320 megawatts or 1,280 megawatt hours worth of energy — several times larger than the facility where the fire continues to burn.

Without the BESS facilities, the county could have a difficult time meeting its climate goals.

The battery storage facilities are a component of the county's green energy goals, storing energy from renewable sources such as solar or wind to use as needed. They are intended as an alternative or at least a supplement to fossil fuel energies such as natural gas and oil.

Since 2021, there have been 45 fires at similar BESS facilities, including one at the Otay Mesa battery storage earlier this year and one in Valley Center last year.

As San Diego County grapples with the push and pull of green energy infrastructure and community safety, Supervisor Terra Lawson-Remer has made a proactive move. Supervisor Terra Lawson-Remer introduced an amendment to strictly regulate the placement of battery storage facilities. The amendment focuses on establishing "minimum residential buffer parameters" to protect local neighborhoods from potential risks linked to such facilities, responding specifically to concerns raised following recent fires.

In the wake of a lithium battery blaze at a San Diego Gas & Electric storage site in Escondido, the County Board of Supervisors faces pressure to halt the development of new battery storage sites temporarily. According to 10News, a suite of options will be presented to the supervisors, including calling for advanced fire suppression reports and heightened disclosure mandates. One such option could freeze the proposed AES' Seguro storage project, significantly larger than the Escondido site where the fire broke out. With no injuries reported, the fire, confined to a single cell of the facility, prompted evacuations and raised the alarm over larger proposed projects in residential vicinities.

Lawson-Remer's amendment charges the County Fire Chief to analyze ideal buffer distances for these storage systems. As per Supervisor Terra Lawson-Remer, the infrastructure is "necessary for us to meet our climate goals," yet they must be constructed in ways that do not put residents at risk. The aim is to reach an accord allowing the dual objectives of climate progress and community safety to move forward hand in hand.

Meanwhile, citizens have reignited their calls for a building moratorium on new storage facilities. "The Escondido battery fire is unfolding in an industrial area away from homes and residences. However, it reinforces the concerns of residents that a project that is 10 times larger (the Seguro project) is being proposed, which would be surrounded by hundreds of homes and upwind from a hospital in northern San Diego County, near Escondido," pointed out a group that includes JP Theberge of the Elfin Forest Harmony Grove Town Council and Joe Rowley, a retired engineer and battery storage facility developer, according to 10News.

Former Sempra executive Joseph Rowley is flanked by fellow Escondido residents against a proposed clean energy battery energy storage system in Escondido.- Photo by Michael Howard:

By Michael Howard

May 14, 2024 (Escondido) – The developer of a proposed battery energy storage system (BESS) slated to be built just over a quarter mile from Palomar Hospital in Escondido held its last in a series of three workshops last week at the San Marcos Community Center. The workshop was geared toward addressing the concerns of local citizens who have organized opposition to the project by gathering upwards of 2,700 signatures against the project.

The batteries are meant to bridge the energy gap between traditional energy sources provided by San Diego Gas and Electric (SDGE) and the spike of usage during peak times when historic “brown” or blackouts are ordered to mitigate capacity issues.

But residents nearby say the project poses health and safety risks. Ashley Robertson Bedard, a vocal opponent of the project who has attended all three workshops says it's a disaster waiting to happen.

"Battery energy storage systems are known to cause thermal runaway, leading to fires and toxic fumes," Bedard stated. "With over 40 million battery cells planned for this facility, the potential for disaster is enormous,” she asserts.

The developer of the project, AES, says fire and safety precautions are at the forefront of their design and provided a detailed look at the fire protection strategies they plan to deploy in previous workshops. In its presentation to community residents in March, AES Development Manager Max Guarniere explained new fire prevention codes provide further protection.

“The piece that is new is gas detection and explosion prevention,” he explained. “So, when a battery cell gets above a certain operating threshold, it's usually around 220 degrees or more, they will start to release gas and that is an indication that something could happen if you don't stop the operation. And so with early gas detection, we're now able to isolate the system, take a closer look before an actual event occurs.”

In its April workshop the developer held a panel discussion with several fire and risk engineering experts who discussed and outlined several layers of protection proposed that meet local, state and federal standards and certification requirements. The protections listed include an electrical diagnostic and isolation system, gas detection and power block isolation, smoke and sensor-triggered fire suppression and isolating fires within individual battery containers.

Globally, BESS fires are on the radar. The Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), an independent, non-profit energy research, development, and deployment organization with subsidiaries in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, has developed and maintained a battery energy storage system failure event database. According to the database, there have been 72 BESS failures globally since 2018.

One such event listed on the EPRI database is the Valley Center Terra-Gen battery storage fire in April of 2022 where a single battery cell approximately the size of a DVD case caught fire and the fire suppression system worked according to design, as reported by the Valley Roadrunner.

Photo: An artist rendering of a proposed 22.5 acre battery energy storage system facility located a quarter mile from Palomar Hospital in Escondido. Photo by Michael Howard.

But not everyone is convinced. In last Tuesday's workshop, former Sempra Vice President of Project Development Joseph Rowley came out against the project.

“I have many years of experience in selecting sites for projects like this for large scale power projects, that's basically what I did my entire career, and this project, while it does make sense from an electrical interconnection standpoint, it makes no sense at all with regard to the surroundings of the site itself,” he asserted.

According to Rowley, the danger is both the difficulty in putting out battery fires, as well as the toxic gasses that propagate from the fire.

“There is no way to suppress that type of fire,” he said of lithium-ion thermal runaway battery fires, “because it’s more akin to say, rocket fuel than to say fuel oil. Whereas rocket fuel has its oxidant inside the fuel – it doesn’t need any oxygen to burn – a lithium-ion battery is the same,” he explained.

And with the proximity of residents and the hospital nearby, toxic gasses are an issue too, Rowley says. “The fire puts out things like hydrofluoric acid and hydrogen cyanide. I mean, these are extremely toxic gasses that come up with this type of fire,” he proclaimed.

But, with the fire protection systems that the developer has proposed, and the testing required to achieve the necessary certifications, AES is confident that any fire on the site would not breach the boundaries of the facility.

“We are confident based on the different analysis that we've done today that if there were to be a fire, it wouldn't spread, certainly from the container it's in, but also it wouldn't get past the road that's in between the container and the wall itself,” Corinne Bonine of AES maintains.

Speaking at the May 7 event, Bonine says she knows there’s a lot of opposition to the project. “There’s a lot of emotions here,” she admits, “we want to put together a project that will look at impacts maybe we’re not thinking of,” she affirmed.

According to Rowley, the problem isn’t really the developer’s intentions. More so, it’s the newness of technology.

“Regulations have not caught up with the technology – this technology is changing extremely quickly,” he said. “There’s no consensus on how to best suppress fires at these types of facilities. You have proposals that range from large amounts of water to various chemicals and everything in between,” Rowley professes.

“So, yeah, they have solutions, but it’s a moving target,” he adds.

SOURCES

AES. (2024, April 17). Workshop 2: Battery Energy Storage Safety. Community Workshop Series.

Bedard, A. R. (2024, March 21). Concerned Resident [Personal communication].

Bonine, C. (2024, May 7). Director, Permitting—Wind, Permitting and Real Estate—West at AES [Personal communication].

Rowley, J. (2024, May 7). Retired, Vice President Project Development, Sempra U.S. Gas & Power [Personal communication].

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