Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)
While battery storage is a key technology, lithium-ion systems can pose serious fire, explosion, and toxic gas risks. These events can trigger intense thermal runaway fires that are extremely difficult to extinguish, as well as gas buildup that creates explosion hazards and toxic fumes that threaten workers, first responders, and nearby communities.
The Dangers Hidden in Plain Sight
Why are communities so worried about these battery projects? It’s because large batteries can fail, causing fires that are nearly impossible to put out. These fires can lead to explosions and release thick, toxic smoke. When these systems are built near our homes, schools, and offices, any accident puts all of us in immediate danger.
Right now, many of our local fire departments and emergency teams don’t have the specialized training or heavy-duty equipment needed to fight a massive battery fire. Plans for dealing with these accidents are often unclear or completely missing. Without a solid plan and the right tools, our first responders are left at a serious disadvantage if something goes wrong.
Because of these risks, we believe that no new battery projects should be approved until real safety measures are in place. This means we need total transparency from the companies involved, proven safety technologies, and emergency plans that are tested and shared with the public.
Safety must come before profit.
Real-World BESS Incidents
Arizona Public Service (APS) BESS explosion
Arizona 2019
A 2.16 MWh lithium-ion BESS went into thermal runaway, filled the container with flammable gas, and when firefighters opened the door, there was a powerful internal explosion that seriously injured four firefighters and heavily damaged the container.
Gateway Energy Storage Facility fire
San Diego, 2024
A large BESS using NMC lithium-ion batteries caught fire. Flare-ups continued for seven days, with heavy monitoring of air and water. Regulators required detailed plans to handle and dispose of thousands of damaged batteries.
Moss Landing BESS fire
Monterey County, 2025
A major BESS fire led to a 24-hour evacuation of about 1,200 residents and a big multi-agency response. Later testing found that no long-term air quality limits were exceeded, but the event showed how disruptive large BESS failures can be for nearby communities.
RHCCC Meeting March 6, 2026
This is a presentation delivered on March 9, 2026 at the Rowland Heights Community Coordinating Council, which meets on the second Monday each month at the Community Center at Pathfinder Park.
The presentation was given by Samuel Brown, a local community organizer and environmental curriculum educator who has been working to inform residents about the potential impacts of proposed energy and data infrastructure projects in the region.