Escondido Blocks Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), Setting Global Precedent

On August 28, 2024, the City Council of Escondido (near San Diego), California, made headlines by blocking the construction of a large-scale Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) proposed by AES Corporation.

Communities fear the potential dangers of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), including the risk of lithium-ion battery fires and toxic emissions.

This decision, marked by a 4-1 vote, has set a global precedent, signaling the growing tension between advancing renewable energy projects and ensuring community safety.

The project, which aimed to store 320 megawatts of energy—enough to power 240,000 homes—faced significant opposition from residents and city leaders. Concerns revolved around the safety risks associated with lithium-ion batteries, potential environmental hazards, and the project’s proximity to residential areas.

Citizens from Eden Valley, Harmony Grove, and Elfin Forest expressed fears about fire risks, noise pollution, and health implications, particularly given Escondido’s fire-prone nature.

Mayor Dane White, who led the opposition, emphasized that while the city supports renewable energy initiatives, the proposed location near homes and medical facilities was unsuitable.

"We need renewable energy, but not at the cost of our residents' safety," White asserted.

Councilmember Consuelo Martinez was the only dissenting voice, advocating for further expert consultations before making a final decision.

Meanwhile, Eden Valley resident Andrew McSparron and Harmony Grove’s JP Theberge spoke out against the project, highlighting their concerns about its proximity to homes and AES’s prioritization of cost savings over community welfare.

AES director Corinne Lytle Bonine defended the project, citing rigorous safety standards, job creation, and its alignment with Escondido’s goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2035.

However, the council and community remained unconvinced.

Escondido’s bold stance has sent ripples globally, as this BESS installation would have been one of the world’s largest.

Many view this decision as a turning point, with implications that could influence other cities to scrutinize large-scale renewable energy projects more closely, ensuring that community safety and environmental protection are prioritized.

Interestingly, this decision comes just as a fire broke out at another battery storage facility operated by San Diego Gas and Electric (SDG&E) in Escondido on September 5, 2024.

The incident has underscored the safety concerns surrounding such projects, as fire crews battled the blaze for days, using chemicals, to ensure the protection of neighboring battery storage units.

The fire led to mandatory evacuations in the surrounding areas, as well as school shutdowns, amplifying the already heated debate over the safety of battery energy storage systems.