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HomeMy WebLinkAboutAGENDA REPORT 2025 0624 PC ITEM 08ACITY OF MOORPARK, CALIFORNIA Planning Commission Meeting of June 24, 2025 Item: 8.A. ACTION: Approved Staff Recommendation, Including Adoption of Resolution No. PC-2025-712. BY: J. Lugo A. Consider Resolution No. PC-2025-712 Recommending to the City Council Approval of Zoning Ordinance Amendment No. CD-ZCA-2025-0006 to Modify Table 17.20.060(E)(8) of the Moorpark Municipal Code to Prohibit Energy Storage within a Building in the Industrial Park, Limited Industrial, Institutional, and Industrial-Flex Zones and Making a Determination that this Project is Exempt from Environmental Review in Connection Therewith. Staff Recommendation: 1) Open the public hearing, accept public testimony, and close the public hearing; and 2) Adopt Resolution No. PC-2025-712 recommending that the City Council make a determination that this project is exempt from environmental review pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) and adopt an ordinance approving Zoning Ordinance Amendment No. CD-ZCA-2025-0006. (Staff: Areli Perez) MOORPARK PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA REPORT TO: Honorable Planning Commission FROM: Areli Perez, Associate Planner II DATE: 06/24/2025 SUBJECT: Consider Resolution No. PC-2025-712 Recommending to the City Council Approval of Zoning Ordinance Amendment No. CD-ZCA-2025- 0006 to Modify Table 17.20.060(E)(8) of the Moorpark Municipal Code to Prohibit Energy Storage within a Building in the Industrial Park, Limited Industrial, Institutional, and Industrial-Flex Zones and Making a Determination that this Project is Exempt from Environmental Review in Connection Therewith STAFF RECOMMENDATION 1.Open the public hearing, accept public testimony, and close the public hearing; and 2. Adopt Resolution No. PC-2025-712 recommending that the City Council make a determination that this project is exempt from environmental review pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) and adopt an ordinance approving Zoning Ordinance Amendment No. CD-ZCA-2025-0006. BACKGROUND On July 19, 2023, the City Council adopted Ordinances Nos. 512-515 to update the Zoning Code to implement the intent of the General Plan 2050. This update followed extensive community outreach over several years and updated Table 17.20.060 of the Moorpark Municipal Code (MMC) to allow “energy storage within a building” as a conditionally permitted use in the Industrial Park (M-1), Limited Industrial (M-2), Institutional (I), and Industrial-Flex (I-F) Zones with a Conditional Use Permit. A definition was also added to MCC 17.08.010 to define “energy storage” as “a device or group of devices capable of storing energy for use at a later time. Energy storage devices may be referred to as batteries or other physical or chemical storage methods.” For the purposes of this report, “energy storage systems” are also referred to as Battery Energy Storage Item: 8.A. 1 Honorable Planning Commission 06/24/2025 Regular Meeting Page 2 Systems (BESS), as has been the most-common application of this technology. Furthermore, the Moorpark Municipal Code defines the term “building” as, “any structure having a roof supported by columns or walls and intended for the shelter, housing, or enclosure of persons, animals, chattel or property of any kind.” DISCUSSION On May 21, 2025, the City Council was consulted to confirm whether BESS located within buildings remained a desired land use within the City of Moorpark. After hearing public testimony, the Council determined that this use was not desired and directed staff to initiate a zoning code amendment to prohibit such facilities. During deliberation, the City Council grounded this decision in consideration of their proximity to residential areas, a desire to encourage uses that would bring more jobs and economic development, sensitivities regarding the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones within the City, and concerns regarding prior energy storage system incidents and overall safety. The City Council staff report with additional information regarding BESS technology, state regulations/pre-emption of local control, and safety concerns is included as Attachment 2. The proposed Zoning Ordinance Amendment modifies Table 17.20.060 to prohibit “energy storage within a building” in the Industrial Park (M-1), Limited Industrial (M-2), Institutional (I), and Industrial-Flex (I-F) Zones whereas this use was previously allowable under a conditional use permit. These changes are shown in legislative format in the condensed table below, with struck through text indicating proposed language to be removed and underline text noting additions: Table 17.20.060 PERMITTED USES IN COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL ZONES — = Not permitted P = Permitted AP = Administrative Permit ZC = Permitted by Zoning Clearance TUP = Permitted by Temporary Use Permit CUP = Permitted by Conditional Use Permit C-O C-1 C-P-D C-2 C-OT M-1 M-2 I I-F E. Public and Semi-Public Uses 8. Energy Storage Within a Building — — — — — CUP — CUP — CUP — CUP GENERAL PLAN CONSISTENCY The proposed amendment to the Zoning Code implements the goals and policies identified in the General Plan 2050 by prohibiting battery energy storage systems within buildings. The prohibition supports the goals by prioritizing public safety, reducing fire 2 Honorable Planning Commission 06/24/2025 Regular Meeting Page 3 risk in areas designated as Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones, and maintaining compatibility between land uses—particularly near residential neighborhoods. This action aligns with the General Plan’s emphasis on protecting community health and safety, promoting responsible land use, and enhancing the overall resilience of the built environment. Zoning Ordinance Amendment No. CD-ZCA-2025-0006 implements the following goals and policies of General Plan 2050: A. General Plan 2050 Implementation Program LU-I9: Zoning Ordinance Implementation B. General Plan 2050 Implementation Program LU-I10: Codes and Ordinances C. General Plan 2050 Policy LU 1.1: Growth respecting Moorpark’s values and character D. General Plan 2050 Policy LU 6.1: Land use compatibility E. General Plan 2050 Goal LU 16: Industrial Uses F. General Plan 2050 Policy 16.1 Diverse industries and jobs ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION This project is exempt from environmental review pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) because there is no potential that the removal of energy storage systems as a permitted use within the listed zones would result in a significant impact on the environment. PUBLIC NOTICING Staff has provided the required noticing associated with the Zoning Code Update hearing in accordance with State Law. This included a 1/8-page notice of public hearing published in the Ventura County Star on June 4, 2025, 20 days prior to the public hearing. Supplemental notification was also posted on the City website. ATTACHMENTS 1. Draft Resolution PC-2025-712, including Exhibit A: Draft Zoning Ordinance Amendment Text 2. City Council Staff Report – May 21, 2025 with attachments 3 RESOLUTION NO. PC-2025-712 A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF MOORPARK, RECOMMENDING TO THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVAL OF ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT NO. CD-ZCA-2025-0006 MODIFYING TABLE 17.20.060(E)(8) OF THE MOORPARK MUNICIPAL CODE TO PROHIBIT ENERGY STORAGE WITHIN A BUILDING THROUGHOUT THE CITY WITHIN THE INDUSTRIAL PARK (M-1), LIMITED INDUSTRIAL (M-2), INSTITUTIONAL (I), AND INDUSTRIAL FLEX (I-F) ZONES AND MAKE A DETERMINATION OF EXEMPTION PURSUANT TO THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT IN CONNECTION THEREWITH. WHEREAS, on May 21, 2025, the City Council directed staff to amend the current zoning regulations for battery energy storage systems within a building from a conditionally permitted use to a prohibited use by amending table 17.20.060(E)(8) titled “Permitted Uses in Commercial and Industrial Zones”; and WHEREAS, Zoning Ordinance Amendment No. CD-ZCA-2025-0006 now proposes to amend Table 17.20.060(E)(8) of the City of Moorpark Municipal Code to prohibit energy storage within a building within the Industrial Park (M-1), Limited Industrial (M-2), Institutional (I), and Industrial Flex (I-F) zones; and WHEREAS, at a duly noticed public hearing on June 24, 2025, the Planning Commission considered Zoning Ordinance Amendment No. CD-ZCA-2025-0006, including the agenda report and any supplements thereto and written public comments, opened the public hearing and took and considered public testimony both for and against the proposal, and reached a decision in this matter; and WHEREAS, the Community Development Director determined that this project is exempt from environmental review pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines. Pursuant to Section 15061 (b)(3) of CEQA, a project is not subject to CEQA because it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the proposed action would result in a significant effect on the environment and adoption of a Municipal Code Text Amendment does not create a significant effect on the environment because it would limit land uses in particular zoning districts within the City, therefore no further environmental documentation is required. NOW, THEREFORE, THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF MOORPARK, DOES HEREBY RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS: SECTION 1. RECITALS. The Planning Commission finds that all of the facts set forth in the Recitals to this Resolution are true and correct and incorporated herein. SECTION 2. FINDINGS AND EVIDENCE. The findings made in this Resolution are based upon the information and evidence set forth in the Recitals to this Resolution, 4 Resolution No. PC-2025-712 Page 2 the Zoning Ordinance Amendment No. CD-ZCA-2025-0006 (attached as Exhibit A and incorporated herein by this reference), and upon other substantial evidence that has been presented at the hearing and in the record of this proceeding. SECTION 3. ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION: The Planning Commission concurs with the determination of the Community Development Director that Zoning Ordinance Amendment No. CD-ZCA-2025-0006 is exempt from environmental review pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the State CEQA Guidelines because it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the proposed action would result in a significant effect on the environment. Therefore, no further environmental analysis is required pursuant to CEQA. SECTION 4. GENERAL PLAN CONSISTENCY: Zoning Ordinance Amendment No. CD-ZCA-2025-0006 implements the goals and policies of General Plan 2050 and is found consistent with the requirements of the Plan. These include, but are not limited to: A. General Plan 2050 Implementation Program LU-I9 regarding “Zoning Ordinance Implementation” provides: “Require conformance of proposed development projects with the procedures, permitted uses, and development standards specified by the Municipal Code, Title 17 Zoning. Periodically, review and amend as necessary to ensure compliance with applicable state and federal regulations and relevance to state- of-the art practices and amendments/updates of the GP Land Use Plan and revise as needed to reflect General Plan and Housing Element.” The proposed Zoning Ordinance Amendment updates the Code to prohibit undesirable land use of battery energy storage within a building. B. General Plan 2050 Implementation Program LU-I10 regarding “Code and Ordinances Implementation” provides: “Implement and periodically review and update Municipal Codes and Ordinances to ensure compliance the state and federal regulations and best practices including, but not limited to, adoption of state-of-the-art technologies, age-friendly, barrier-free development, sustainable development and infrastructure, reduction and resilience to the impacts of climate change, and other features that promote the health and safety of buildings.” The proposed Zoning Ordinance Amendment updates the Code to prohibit undesirable land use of battery energy storage within a building. C. General Plan 2050 Policy LU 1.1 provides: “Growth respecting Moorpark’s values and character: Accommodate growth that is consistent with community values and complements the scale and character of Moorpark’s residential neighborhoods, business districts, and natural environmental setting.” The proposed Zoning Ordinance Amendment updates the Code to prohibit undesirable land use of battery energy storage within a building to appropriately accommodate growth that complements Moorpark. D. General Plan 2050 Policy LU 6.1 provides: “Land use compatibility: Require that development is located and designed to assure compatibility among land uses.” The proposed Zoning Ordinance Amendment prohibits energy storage within a building in the 5 Resolution No. PC-2025-712 Page 3 Industrial Park (M-1), Limited Industrial (M-2), Institutional (I), and Industrial Flex (I-F) zones to assure compatibility within the permitted uses in the commercial and industrial zones table. E. General Plan 2050 Policy LU 6.7 provides: “Protection from environmental hazards: Prohibit or effectively control land uses that pose potential environmental hazards to Moorpark’s neighborhoods and districts.” The proposed Zoning Ordinance Amendment supports the goals by prioritizing public safety, reducing fire risk in areas designated as Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones, and maintaining compatibility between land uses—particularly near residential neighborhoods. F. General Plan 2050 Policy LU 16.1 provides: “Support a variety of industrial uses, including green industries, that offer job opportunities for Moorpark’s residents and revenues to the city without compromising environmental quality.” The proposed Zoning Ordinance Amendment prohibits energy storage within a building in the Industrial Park (M-1), Limited Industrial (M-2), Institutional (I), and Industrial Flex (I-F) zones prohibiting a generally low-employment land use in key industrial areas, the City is prioritizing remaining industrial land for more job-intensive uses. This strategic land use decision aligns with the City Council’s intent to foster employment growth and expand the local economy, while continuing to support environmentally responsible development in industrial zones. G. General Plan 2050 Goal LU 16 provides: “A diversity of industrial uses that are located and designed in a compatible manner with surrounding land uses”. The proposed Zoning Ordinance Amendment prohibits energy storage within a building in the in the Industrial Park (M-1), Limited Industrial (M-2), Institutional (I), and Industrial Flex (I- F) zones to support broader uses that are appropriately located and designed to be compatible with surrounding development. Zoning Ordinance Amendment No. CD-ZCA-2025-0006 amends Table 17.20.060(E)(8) of the Municipal Code to ensure compliance with the General Plan and is therefore consistent with General Plan 2050. SECTION 6. EVIDENCE IN THE RECORD. Prior to taking action, the Planning Commission has heard, been presented with, reviewed and considered the information and data in the record, including oral and written testimony presented for and during the public hearing. The City’s independent consultants and City staff have reviewed and analyzed the comments received on Zoning Ordinance Amendment No. CD-ZCA-2025- 0006. SECTION 7. PLANNING COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION: Based on all the documents and other evidence presented in connection with this proceeding and in this Resolution, the Planning Commission recommends that the City Council approve Zoning Ordinance Amendment No. CD-ZCA-2025-0006. 6 Resolution No. PC-2025-712 Page 4 SECTION 8. FILING OF RESOLUTION: The Community Development Director shall cause a certified resolution to be filed in the book of original resolutions. The action of the foregoing direction was approved by the following vote: AYES: NOES: ABSTAIN: ABSENT: PASSED, AND ADOPTED this 24th day of June 2025. Kipp Landis Chair Doug Spondello, AICP Community Development Director Attachments: EXHIBIT A: Zoning Ordinance Amendment No. CD-ZCA-2025-0006 Text 7 Resolution No. PC-2025-712 Page 5 EXHIBIT A ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT NO. CD-ZCA-2025-0006 DRAFT ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT TEXT Table 17.20.060(E)(8) of the Municipal Code shall be amended as shown below, where underlined indicates new text and strikethrough indicates removed text: Table 17.20.060 PERMITTED USES IN COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL ZONES — = Not permitted P = Permitted AP = Administrative Permit ZC = Permitted by Zoning Clearance TUP = Permitted by Temporary Use Permit CUP = Permitted by Conditional Use Permit C-O C- 1 C-P-D C-2 C-OT M-1 M-2 I I-F E. Public and Semi-Public Uses 8. Energy storage within a building — — — — — CUP — CUP — CUP — CUP 8 MOORPARK CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT TO: Honorable City Council FROM: Doug Spondello, Community Development Director DATE: 05/21/2025 Regular Meeting SUBJECT: Evaluate the Adequacy of Current Zoning Regulations Related to Commercial Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) BACKGROUND AND DISCUSSION Moorpark Regulatory Context On July 19, 2023, the City Council adopted Ordinances Nos. 512-515 to update the Zoning Code to implement the intent of the 2050 General Plan. This update followed extensive community outreach over several years and updated Table 17.20.060 of the Moorpark Municipal Code (MMC) to allow “energy storage within a building” as a conditionally permitted use in the Industrial Park (M-1), Limited Industrial (M-2), Institutional (I), and Industrial-Flex (I-F) Zones with a Conditional Use Permit. A copy of the Zoning Map depicting these locations is included as Attachment 1 and excerpt of Table 17.20.060 is included below. Table 17.20.060 PERMITTED USES IN COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL ZONES Zones C- O C- 1 C-P-D/C- 2 C- OT M-1 M-2 I I-F E. Public and Semi-Public Uses 8. Energy storage within a building - - - - CUP CUP CUP CUP A definition was also added to MCC 17.08.010 to define “energy storage” as “a device or group of devices capable of storing energy for use at a later time. Energy storage devices may be referred to as batteries or other physical or chemical storage methods”. For the purposes of this report, “energy storage systems” are also referred to as Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), as has been the most-common application of this technology. Item: 9.B. 26549 Furthermore, the Moorpark Municipal Code defines term “building” as, “any structure having a roof supported by columns or walls and intended for the shelter, housing, or enclosure of persons, animals, chattel or property of any kind.” The Broader Regulatory Environment In 2010, the State of California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) was directed by the Legislature to evaluate energy storage targets (AB 2514, Skinner 2010). The CPUC subsequently established a procurement target of the state’s three Investor-Owned Utilities (IOUs) of 1,325 megawatts (MW) by 20201 (Attachment 2). The intent of this was to optimize the grid, integrate renewable energy sources, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions to align with existing climate goals. A recent study on battery energy commissioned by the California Independent System Operator (“CAISO”) notes that CAISO has estimated that California is projected to need 50 gigawatts of energy storage by 2045 to meet established greenhouse gas reduction goals. The report notes that to date, approximately 13 gigawatts (GW) have been installed 2 (Attachment 2). BESS systems have become prevalent over the past six years in several capacities. Small-scale systems have been deployed for homeowners and businesses to store energy from solar systems and provide backup power in the event of emergencies. Similarly, large-scale, independent modular systems have been developed to store power that can be backfed into the electrical grid during periods of high use to prevent brownouts and outages. The larger-scale grid backup BESS systems were the subject of some debate during the Zoning Code update and a subsequent hearing, particularly, whether this use was desired, appropriate for our community, and whether it presented a hazard. State Pre-Emption of Local Permitting Authority In 2022, Governor Newsom signed Assembly Bill 205 3 which included streamlined permitting for BESS projects with a storage capacity of 200 megawatt-hours or more though the California Energy Commission (CEC) to expedite the development of these projects, superseding local permit authority. In such instances, the CEC would also serve as the lead agency for environmental review pursuant to California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Under this framework, a developer would seek certification from the CEC directly. As characterized in an analysis by Cox Castle, “the CEC has yet to approve any opt-in projects” and “State law prohibits the CEC from approving projects through the opt-in process unless they are determined to be consistent with local regulations, codes and 1 https://www.cpuc.ca.gov/industries-and-topics/electrical-energy/energy-storage 2 https://www.coxcastle.com/publication-battery-storage-in-california-meets-new-regulatory-hurdles-how- high-can-storage-jump 265510 ordinances unless certain (and potentially difficult findings) are made. To date, the CEC has demonstrated little appetite to override inconsistent local prohibitions or restrictions on battery energy storage development”3 (Attachment 2). As of the date of this report, the CEC has not approved any BESS projects through the opt-in certification process however there are eight opt-in projects currently pending CEC review – four of which involve BESS developments. The CEC is required to make specific findings to approve a project, including: 1. The project must be found to comply with all applicable laws, ordinances, regulations, and standards. If the project does not comply with one or more of these, the CEC must find that: a) The project is required for public convenience and necessity; and b) There are no more prudent or feasible means of achieving public convenience and necessity. 2. The project will result in an overall net positive economic benefit to the local government; 3. The applicant has entered into a community benefits agreement with the local government; and 4. The applicant has verified that all construction workers will be paid at least the prevailing wage and that a skilled and trained workforce, or an equivalent, will be used for construction. The CEC must also serve as the lead agency under a CEQA-certified regulatory program and must either find that environmental impacts are mitigated to a level of insignificance or adopt a statement of overriding considerations where significant impacts remain. Moorpark BESS Applications Multiple parties have expressed interest in developing BESS within the City, given the proximity of vacant industrial land to the Moorpark Southern California Edison (SCE) substation located at the northwest corner of Gabbert Road and Los Angeles Avenue. Two applications have been filed on behalf of Hecate Grid LLC (Hecate) and Prologis. Both are proposed on properties with existing Development Agreements and to date neither application has been deemed “complete”. Hecate On March 19, 2024, Hecate Grid LLC submitted an application for a Conditional Use Permit, Tentative Parcel Map, and Development Agreement Amendment for the proposed development of an outdoor 600-megawatt BESS facility within an existing 34.7-acre subdivision located west of Gabbert Road (Tract No. 5906). On September 24, 2024, the City Council considered a pre-application request by Hecate requesting to allow alternative screening for 600-megawatt BESS facilities that would remove the requirement they be placed within a building. The project is proposed 265611 on the former A-B Properties site. This requirement was originally intended to mitigate visual and environmental impacts of industrial energy infrastructure. During the testimony, the Applicant described the benefits of the BESS system, potential hazards presented when BESS systems are placed within a building, safety systems, and the potential to address visual impacts through other means. The Hecate proposal is also within a designated Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone. During this meeting, Ventura County Fire Protection District Captain/Moorpark Fire Chief Dan Horton described the challenges with fire suppression at BESS facilities, including toxic materials, fumes, and material being left to burnout for weeks because conditions are too hazardous and challenging to extinguish. Other factors included thermal runaway, reignitions, and large volumes of water required to extinguish BESS fires. BESS system fires can release large quantities of hydrogen fluoride vapors and hydrofluoric acid runoff. Chief Horton noted that fires at BESS facilities required prolonged resource allocations to deal with the scale of concern and the long duration when a hazard would be presented. To a degree, the discussion transcended the screening requirement and examined broader concerns regarding the potential hazards presented by BESS systems in urban areas and near sensitive uses. The City Council ultimately voted to deny the pre- application. Hecate’s applications remain active; however, the project was deemed incomplete for processing and has not been resubmitted by the Applicant. Prologis On September 26, 2024, Prologis submitted an application for an Industrial Planned Development Permit, Conditional Use Permit, Tentative Tract Map and Development Agreement Amendment to develop three industrial buildings totaling 507,606 square feet and a 500-MW (2,000 megawatt-hours) BESS facility on 44.33 acres of vacant property at 11289 Los Angeles Avenue (former Moorpark West Studios Site). This application has gone through multiple rounds of refinement by the Prologis team but is currently incomplete. BESS Incidents and Safety There have been several fires at BESS facilities recently in California. These include: (see Attachment 2) Moss Landing Power Plant Fire – Indoor BESS (Monterey County, January 2025)4 Escondido SDG&E Facility Fire - Outdoor BESS (San Diego County, September 2024)5 Valley Center Energy Storage Fires - Outdoor BESS (San Diego County, 2023)6 4 https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2025-01-26/horrifying-fire-at-california-battery-plant-sparks-call- for-new-clean-energy-rules 5 https://www.nbcsandiego.com/news/local/lithium-ion-battery-fire-in-escondido-prompts-large- response/3615328/ 265712 As noted during the Hecate pre-application discussion, initial fires often burned for extended periods of time and later reignited. The cumulative effect is that the associated disruption to communities and impacts to fire services are often severe and long-lasting. BESS systems typically employ central monitoring that gathers information from sensors within each battery container to ensure optimal performance, safety, and reliability. This may include temperature and humidity sensors, thermal imaging cameras, off-gas detection, and very early warning smoke detection Systems7 (Attachment 2). National and State Fire Code requirements applicable to BESS facilities do exist. Such requirements could be applied to any project seeking approval in the City. The requirements are outlined below: National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Standards: 1. NFPA 855 (Standard for the Installation of Stationary Energy Storage Systems): First issued in 2020, sets the main national baseline for design, installation, commissioning, operation, maintenance, and decommissioning of BESS, including: a. Location and separation distances (from buildings, property lines, public ways) b. Fire and explosion protection (e.g., gas detection, fire suppression systems) c. Maximum allowable quantities (MAQ) per fire area d. Thermal runaway protection (detection, isolation, management) e. Emergency planning (including fire department access, pre-incident planning) f. Signage and labeling (hazard communication) g. Fire-resistance ratings for rooms or enclosures h. Smoke and gas venting 2. NFPA 1 (Fire Code): Often adopted by jurisdictions, references NFPA 855 for energy storage installations 3. NFPA 70 (National Electrical Code, NEC) 4. Article 706 (Energy Storage Systems): Covers electrical wiring, connections, disconnects, grounding, and overcurrent protection for BESS 6 https://www.energy-storage.news/terra-gen-to-investigate-cause-of-valley-center-battery-storage-fire- with-incident-over/ 7 https://www.everonsolutions.com/insights/white-papers/advanced-fire-detection-and-battery-energy- storage-systems-bess 265813 In California, the following regulations apply: 1. California Fire Code (CFC): Based on the International Fire Code (IFC) but with California amendments. 2. Chapter 12 (Energy Systems) addresses: a. Stationary storage requirements b. Fire department access and clearances c. Hazard mitigation analysis (HMA) for larger systems (>50 kWh), detailing risks like thermal runaway, off-gassing, and explosion d. Spill control, smoke control, and explosion control e. Means for emergency shutdown, manual and automatic f. Outdoor vs. indoor location separation g. Signage: clear labeling for responders 3. California Building Code (CBC): If BESS is integrated into a building, structural, seismic, and occupancy separation rules apply. 4. California Electrical Code (CEC): a. Aligns with NFPA 70 NEC Article 706. b. Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) c. Provides guidance for local agencies to coordinate emergency response plans for emerging energy technologies, including BESS. Additional Requirements 1. Underwriters Laboratories (UL) Listings: BESS units are generally required to be listed under UL 9540 (Energy Storage Systems) and tested to UL 9540A (thermal runaway fire propagation). 2. Fire Department Coordination: Most local AHJs (Authorities Having Jurisdiction) require: a. Pre-incident response plans b. On-site orientation for first responders c. Emergency operations manual or procedures d. Hazard Mitigation Analysis (HMA): For larger systems, California often requires detailed HMA to assess potential hazards (thermal runaway, explosion, gas release) and demonstrate mitigation measures. QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION Staff recommends that the Council consider the following questions during deliberation: 1. Do BESS facilities remain a desired use within the City of Moorpark as outlined in the existing Zoning Code? And, if not: 2. What are the specific locations or zones where this use should be considered? 3. Are there any specific development requirements that should be established specifically for BESS facilities? 265914 ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION This item is not subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), as it does not constitute a “project” pursuant to Section 15378. FISCAL IMPACT None. COUNCIL GOAL COMPLIANCE This action does not support a current strategic directive. STAFF RECOMMENDATION Discuss and provide direction to staff on Commercial Battery Storage Systems and: 1. Provide confirm that BESS facilities remain a desired use within the City of Moorpark as outlined in the existing Zoning Code; or 2. Direct staff to prepare updates to the Zoning Ordinance to: a. Address specific changes desired to the specific locations or zones within the City where this use should be considered; and b. Identify any specific development requirements that should be established specifically for BESS facilities. Attachment 1: Zoning Map Attachment 2: Reference Articles Cited in this Report 266015 CITY OF MOORPARK Zoning Map Parks, Open Space, Agriculture D Agricultural Exclusive [A-E] -Open Space [O-S] -Open Space 10 Acre Lot Min. [O-S-10AC] l.i Open Space 20 Acre Lot Min. [O-S-20AC] li!+J Open Space 40 Acre Lot Min. [O-S-40AC] -Open Space 500 Acre Lot Min. [O-S-S00AC] Residential D Single Family Residential Low [R-L] D Sing le-Family Residential [R-1] -Medium Density Residential [R-2] -Multifamily Residential [R-3] � Trailer Park Development [TPD] Rural Residential � Rural Agricultural [R-A] D Rural Exclusive [R-E] Commercial D Neighborhood Commercial [C-1] -General Commercial [C-2]m Commercial Planned Development [C-P-D] � Old Town Commercial [C-OT] E:223 Commercial Office [C-O] Mixed Use -Mixed-Use Low [MUL] -Mixed-Use Medium [MUM] -Mixed-Use District [MUD] Industrial D Industrial Park [M-1] -Limited Industrial [M-2] -Industrial Flex [I-F] Specific Plans � Moorpark Highlands Specific Plan [SP 2] CJ Carlsberg Specific Plan [SP 92-1] r2LJ Hitch Ranch Specific Plan [SP 1] Institutional D Institutional [I] �Feet 0 1,000 2,000 4,000 Source: The City of Moorpark 2023 Ordinance 515 ATTACHMENT 1 266116 Los Angeles fires: Go to ca.gov/LAfires for wildfire tips and latest information. Get more information      Contact Us Translate Settings Search example: How can I reduce my bill? Home › Industries and Topics › Electrical Energy › Energy Storage Energy Storage In response to increased State goals and targets to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, meet air quality standards, and achieve a carbon free grid, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), with authorization from the California Legislature, continues to evaluate options to achieve these goals and targets through several means including through energy storage procurement. The following provides information on California energy storage legislation, the CPUC energy storage program and projects evaluation, CPUC energy storage proceedings, current energy storage procurement , and previous activities. Energy Storage Legislation In 2010, the California Legislature authorized the CPUC to evaluate and determine energy storage targets, if any, for the State Load Serving Entities (LSEs) through Assembly Bill (AB) 2514 (Skinner, 2010). In 2013, the CPUC issued Decision (D.)13-10-040 which set an AB 2514 energy storage procurement target of 1,325 megawatts (MW) by 2020. The CPUC's energy storage procurement policy was formulated with three primary goals: 1.Grid optimization, including peak reduction, contribution to reliability needs, or deferral of transmission and distribution upgrade investments; 2.Integration of renewable energy; and 3.Greenhouse gas (GHG) reductions in support of the State's targets. Assembly Bill 2868 (Gatto, 2016) required the three IOUs to propose programs and investments to accelerate the deployment of distributed energy storage systems with the total capacity not to exceed 500 MW. In 2017, the CPUC issued D.17-04-039 which required the three major IOUs in the State to propose programs and investments to adopt up to 166.66 MW of distributed energy storage systems into their 2018 AB 2514 energy storage procurement plans. On July 5, 2019, the CPUC issued D.19-06-032 which approved PG&E's behind the meter (BTM) thermal energy storage program proposal to comply with AB 2868. This Decision determined that PG&E's remaining application proposal and the application proposals from San Diego Gas and Electric Company's (SDG&E) and Southern California Edison (SCE) did not comply with AB 2868 and thus rejected these proposals. Senate Bill (SB) 801 (Stern, 2017) to address the electric system limitations that resulted from the reduced gas deliverability at the Aliso Canyon natural gas storage facility, SB 801 requested that the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power in coordination with the City of Los Angeles consider cost-eective and feasible solutions to procure a minimum of 100 MW of energy storage. It also requested the CPUC to direct an electrical corporation serving the Los Angeles Basin to procure through a competitive solicitation a minimum of 20 MW. Resolution E-4937 approved SCE's energy storage solicitation to comply with SB 801. Energy Storage Procurement to Date To date the CPUC has approved procurement of more than 1,533.52 MW of new storage capacity to be built in the State. Of this total 506 MW are operational. The AB 2514 mandate is procured in three distinct grid domain targets, with some flexibility between the grid domain targets of customer sited, distribution-connected, and transmission connected. Cumulatively, the three major IOUs have exceeded the AB 2514 target of 1,325 MW and satisfied nearly all domain- specific requirements. See the table below for more details. SEARCH ATTACHMENT 2 266217 Energy Storage Procurement Evaluation CPUC Decision D.13-10-040 requires CPUC sta to conduct a comprehensive program evaluation of the CPUC energy storage procurement policies and AB 2514 energy storage projects. The final study, conducted by Lumen Energy Strategy, was released on May 31, 2023. The final study and its appendices are posted below: Final Study Attachment A: Benefit/Cost and Project Scoring of Historical Operations Attachment B: Cost-Eectiveness of Future Procurement Attachment C: Cost-Eectiveness of Peaker Replacement Attachment D: Procurement Policy Case Studies Attachment E: End Uses and Multiple Applications Attachment F: Safety Best Practices Attachment G: End of Life Options Attachment H: Stakeholder Engagement Background: On March 10, 2020 the CPUC Contracts' Oice posted the CPUC energy storage program and projects evaluation Request for Information (RFI) which included: the desired scope of work, timeline and contractor requirements for comment by April 10, 2020 on calprocure. CPUC sta received comments on the RFI and updated the RFP for release. More information on the energy storage program and projects evaluation RFP can be access at Cal eprocure. The energy storage program and projects evaluation Bidders' Library can be accessed here. The CPUC engaged Lumen Energy Strategy, LLC to conduct the study. Study materials, including information on stakeholder engagement and workshops, can be found at www.lumenenergystrategy.com/energystorage. Scaling Up and Crossing Bounds This study builds upon the previous study released on May 31, 2023 with additional analysis of the performance of energy storage resources participating in the CAISO marketplace in 2022 and 2023. In addition, opportunities and challenges in the development of energy storage resources were explored to provide services to the distribution system, to customers and to their communities. The goal of the study is to build a record of data-driven cross-domain MUA case studies which demonstrate the benefits and challenges to an energy storage resource's ability to provide services both to (a) customers or the local distribution system, and (b) the bulk (wholesale) grid. The study is posted below: Scaling Up And Crossing Bounds: Energy Storage in California Energy Storage Proceedings R.10-12-007: In December 2010, the CPUC opened a Rulemaking to set policy for California Load Serving Entities (LSEs) to consider the procurement of viable and cost-eective energy storage systems in response to AB 2514. This rulemaking identified energy storage end uses and barriers to deployment, considered a variety of possible policies to encourage the cost-eective deployment of energy storage systems, including refinement of existing procurement methods to properly value energy storage systems. This rulemaking resulted in two CPUC Decisions, which are: (1) D. 12-08-016, which adopted the proposed Framework for Analyzing Energy Storage Needs (see D. 12-08-016 Appendix A) and (2) D.13-10-040 which established an energy storage procurement target for the three California Investor Owned Utilities (IOUs) and an energy storage procurement framework. The procurement target was set at 1,325 megawatts (MW) to be divided amongst Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E), Southern California Edison (SCE), and San Diego Gas and Electric (SDG&E). This procurement target was set for implementation by 2020, with installations no later than the end of 2024. D.13-10-040 also required Community Choice Aggregates (CCAs) and Energy Service Providers (ESP) to procure energy storage equal to 1 percent of their annual 2020 peak by 2020. R.15-03-011: On April 2, 2015, the California Public Utilities (CPUC or Commission) opened an Order Instituting Rulemaking (OIR) in response to the enactment and ongoing implementation of legislation Assembly Bill 2514 (Skinner, Stats.2010 - Ch. 469) and to continue to refine policies and program details, which established the Energy Storage Procurement Framework and Program and approved the utilities' applications in implementing the program. This rulemaking considers recommendations included in the California Energy Storage Roadmap, an interagency guidance document which was jointly developed by the California Independent System Operator, the California Energy 266318 Commission (CEC) and the CPUC. This rulemaking resulted in D.18-01-003, a decision on multiple-use application (MUA) issues, which developed eleven rules to support MUAs for energy storage. These rules apply to the IOUs 2018 energy storage solicitations. Other Energy Storage Related Rulemakings R. 11-09-011: This rulemaking reviewed the rules and regulations governing interconnecting generation and energy storage resources to the electric distribution systems. This review resulted in CPUC D. 12-09-019 which updated Electric Rule 21 Interconnection tari for the modern era. R. 13-12-010: This rulemaking determined that energy storage can meet local and system capacity requirements R. 14-08-013: This rulemaking determined that energy Storage may be included as a distribution upgrade deferral asset. R.14-10-010: This rulemaking determined that energy storage's ramping attributes can provide flexible capacity. Energy Storage Procurement and Projects by Utility Chart Table PG&E SCE SDG&E PG&E SCE SDG&E Previous Activities 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 Additional Resources CAISO Energy Storage Daily Dispatch Data Residential Zero Net Energy Building Integration Cost Analysis CAISO Energy Storage Perspective from California and Europe, Discussion Paper - October 2019 National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) Energy Storage Research U.S Energy Information Administration, U.S Battery Storage Market Trends Berkeley Lab, Energy Storage & Distributed Resources Division ENERGY STORAGE 2020 CPUC Energy Storage Evaluation Request for Proposals HOW CAN WE HELP? Emergency? Call 911 266419 Battery Storage in California Meets New Regulatory Hurdles: How High Can Storage Jump? 12.13.24 |News & Publications In a study on battery energy storage last year, the California Independent System Operator (“CAISO”) estimated that California is projected to need 50 gigawatts of energy storage by 2045 to meet its greenhouse gas reduction goals. See CAISO Report on Energy Storage. To date, installed storage totals approximately 13 gigawatts. See Energy Storage News. That means California will need to permit a significant number of batter y storage projects to meet its goal of transitioning from fossil fuels to zero-emission renewable resources. Battery storage is already urgently needed to address the overproduction (and subsequent curtailment) of large amounts of available solar energy during the middle of the day.   As is often the case with new technologies, the need for more energy storage comes with new challenges and opportunities. The challenges are mounting. In particular, cities and counties faced with community opposition to battery energy storage projects are adopting or considering adopting a raft of new restrictions on storage projects in their jurisdictions. The City of Escondido has critiqued new battery projects and suggested such projects are undesirable within its boundaries. Others, like the City of Moorpark, have adopted difficult-to-meet standards such as requiring that all battery energy storage projects be fully enclosed in a building. Kern County is imposing large setbacks on new battery energy storage projects. Other counties are requiring full Environmental Impact Reports (EIRs) for relatively small battery energy storage projects. Los Angeles County is amending its zoning code to add new development standards for battery energy storage projects, Related Professionals Anne E. Mudge Lisa M. Patricio Peter H. Weiner Related Practice Areas Land Use Related Industries Energy & Renewable Energy News & Publications 266520 potentially creating a de facto moratorium on new projects until the code update is complete. San Diego County is considering on a case-by-case basis new best practices for battery energy storage projects, including large setbacks from residences and spacing requirements between battery cabinets. But there are also opportunities. Most jurisdictions, in particular the larger counties, are not saying “no” to battery energy storage. Although progress is slow, these counties are working to develop new regulations that would allow development of new projects. Alameda County has adopted a policy framework and directed its planning department to bring forth zoning code changes that would allow battery energy storage in agricultural zones with a conditional use permit, and specifically declined to adopt a moratorium on new applications for battery energy storage projects in the meantime. Los Angeles County, after approving what it described as the last battery energy storage project under its current regulations, announced it received grant funding and has hired a consultant to begin environmental review to adopt new zoning regulations specific for battery energy storage. Like Alameda County, San Diego County declined to adopt a moratorium on battery storage projects and recently  declined to adopt inflexible new policies to guide best practices for regulating battery energy storage, instead allowing the Fire Chief to implement flexible requirements on a case-by-case basis until the state fire code is updated next year. In addition, several battery developers have filed applications with the California Energy Commission (CEC) for stand-alone battery storage projects under the opt-in provisions of AB 205. Eligible storage projects must be capable of storing 200 megawatt-hours (MWh) or more. An approval by the CEC under AB 205 supersedes and is in-lieu of otherwise required permits from all local and most state agencies. Three stand-alone battery energy storage projects are currently under review by the CEC: the Corby BESS project in Vacaville, the Compass Energy Storage Project in San Juan Capistrano, and the Potentia-Viridi Battery Energy Storage System in Alameda County. According to the CEC’s website, Permitting is crucial to deploy renewable energy power plants, which are essential to meet the state’s climate goals. With half a century of permitting experience under the California Environmental Quality Act, Assembly Bill 205 (2022) has broadened 266621 the California Energy Commission's (CEC) authority. This expansion allows the CEC to oversee the permitting of clean and renewable energy facilities, including solar photovoltaic, onshore wind, and energy storage systems, and facilities that produce or assemble clean energy technologies or their components. Known as the Opt- In Certification Program, this permitting process offers developers an optional pathway to submit project applications, facilitating faster deployment of renewable technologies.   A cautionary note is that the CEC has yet to approve any opt-in projects. Developers in the CEC’s permitting queue under the opt-in program have also described the process as slow and overly conservative. State law prohibits the CEC from approving projects through the opt-in process unless they are determined to be consistent with local regulations, codes, and ordinances unless certain (and potentially difficult) findings are made. To date, the CEC has demonstrated little appetite to override inconsistent local prohibitions or restrictions on battery energy storage development. Projects that cannot demonstrate consistency with all otherwise applicable local or state regulations may face an uphill battle, making it all the more important that jurisdictions considering new regulations do not prohibit future battery energy storage projects. Given the importance of battery storage to grid resiliency and integration of renewable energy, the California Legislature may be open to changes in state law to make permitting energy storage projects easier. Legislative amendments under consideration include: --Amendment of the Warren Alquist Act to mandate less stringent findings for CEC override of inconsistency with otherwise applicable laws. --Streamlined approval for qualifying battery energy storage projects along the lines of AB 1236 (Chiu, 2015) and AB 970 (McCarty, 2021) addressing electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. These existing streamlining provisions mandate that local jurisdictions adopt expedited, streamlined permitting processes for EV charging stations via a ministerial, administrative review process that is exempt from CEQA and is limited to health and safety review. A similar mandate could be approved for qualifying battery energy storage projects. 266722 --Mandated streamlined permitting of storage projects through only limited CEQA review such as through some kind of tiered checklist approach from an already certified EIR. Finally, as fire safety concerns associated with lithium-ion technology batteries continue to be addressed, permitting hurdles for battery storage projects should ease. An update to the California Fire Code to address electrical energy storage systems is anticipated in July 2025 (with a draft to fire departments in May 2025). When final, the updated Fire Code will be effective on January 1, 2026. As noted above, several jurisdictions are willing to approve this key new technology on a case-by-case basis and defer adoption of jurisdiction- specific zoning restrictions until the statewide Fire Code is updated. Nonetheless, even with the Fire Code is updated, some regulatory hurdles likely will remain. If you have questions about your BESS project, you can reach out to any of the authors or member of Cox, Castle & Nicholson’s Land Use Team. 266823 Los Angeles fires Mapping the damage Help for Angelenos How to help Fire preparation newslett CALIFORNIA ‘Horrifying’ fire at California lithium battery plant sparks calls for new clean energy rules This image from a video shows flames rising after a major fire erupted at the Moss Landing Power Plant, about 77 miles south of San Francisco, on Jan. 16. (KSBW via AP) By Clara Harter Sta Writer Jan. 26, 2025 3 AM PT When a massive fire erupted at one of the world’s largest lithium-ion battery storage facilities in Monterey County, it didn’t just send plumes of smoke over nearby communities — it cast a pall over the future of California’s clean energy industry. 266924 The fire at the Moss Landing Power Plant, which ignited on Jan. 16, burned for five days and ultimately destroyed around 80% of the batteries inside the building. Now, as the smoke clears, Monterey-area officials warn that the blaze may be a harbinger as the state increases its reliance on renewable energy, electric vehicles and other battery- powered devices. “I know green is good, but we’ve got to move slowly,” Monterey County Supervisor Glenn Church told The Times. “What we’re doing with this technology is way ahead of government regulations and ahead of the industry’s ability to control it.” The fire earlier this month was the fourth at Moss Landing since 2019, and the third at buildings owned by Texas-based Vistra Energy. The plant is off Highway 1, about 18 miles northeast of the city of Monterey. CALIFORNIA Monterey County officials call Moss Landing lithium battery storage fire a ‘wake- up call’ Jan. 21, 2025 Already, the fire has prompted calls for additional safety regulations around battery storage, and more local control over where storage sites are located. Officials are also demanding that Moss Landing remain offline until an investigation can be completed and major safety improvements implemented. Assemblymember Dawn Addis (D-Morro Bay) has introduced Assembly Bill 303 — the Battery Energy Safety & Accountability Act — which would require local engagement in the permitting process for battery or energy storage facilities, and establish a buffer to keep such sites a set distance away from sensitive areas like schools, hospitals and natural habitats. 267025 “I believe that we are living in a climate crisis and that we need to have solutions,” Addis said at a news conference Thursday. “But along with those solutions, we have to be able to have safety.” Gov. Gavin Newsom, a fierce advocate of clean energy, agrees an investigation is needed to determine the fire’s cause and supports taking steps to make Moss Landing and similar facilities safer, his spokesperson Daniel Villaseñor said in a statement. BUSINESS Battery storage is a key piece of California’s clean energy transition. But there’s a problem with fires Oct. 12, 2023 Addis and two other state legislators sent a letter to the California Public Utilities Commission Thursday requesting an investigation. ADVERTISEMENT “The Moss Landing facility has represented a pivotal piece of our state’s energy future, however this disastrous fire has undermined the public’s trust in utility scale lithium-ion battery energy storage systems,” states the letter. “If we are to ensure California moves its climate and energy goals forward, we must demonstrate a steadfast commitment to safety.” 267126 Vistra has promised an internal investigation into the incident, and to conduct soil testing and fully cooperate with any state or local investigations. During an emergency briefing after the fire broke out, officials said a plume released from the plant contained hydrogen fluoride, a toxic compound, according to county spokesperson Nick Pasculli. However, initial testing from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency ruled that the levels of toxic gases released by the batteries, including hydrogen fluoride, did not pose a threat to public health during the fire. CALIFORNIA Lithium-ion batteries causing fires, dangers on California freeways, sparking calls for safety improvements Oct. 28, 2024 Still, many residents remain on edge about potential long-term impacts on the nearby communities of Watsonville, Castroville, Salinas and the ecologically sensitive Elkhorn Slough estuary. “Having to experience and witness that kind of assault, not just on the people, but on the trees and the environment in general was horrifying,” local resident Silvia Morales told The Times. “The aftereffects might be long term, and I’m seriously concerned about the fact that the plant is adjacent to organic farms that are producing food.” Several factors contributed to the rapid spread of the fire and complicated firefighters’ response, according to North County Fire District Chief Joel Mendoza. A fire suppression system that is part of every battery rack at the plant failed and led to a chain reaction of batteries catching on fire, he said at a news conference last week. 267227 Then, a broken camera system in the plant and superheated gases made it challenging for firefighters to intervene. Once the fire began spreading, firefighters were not able to use water, because doing so can trigger a violent chemical reaction in lithium-ion batteries, potentially causing more to ignite or explode. CALIFORNIA Big rig with lithium ion batteries flips in San Pedro, sparking hazardous fire, closing freeway Sept. 26, 2024 The scale of the fire startled local residents and officials, who have already experienced several smaller fires at the plant and are worried about what could happen if major changes aren’t made. Exacerbating those concerns is a new battery storage site proposed in an unincorporated part of Santa Cruz County near Watsonville. An online petition to halt the establishment of any more battery storage facilities in Monterey or Santa Cruz counties has collected more than 2,900 signatures. The Monterey County Board of Supervisors voted Tuesday to declare a local state of emergency and to send a letter to Vistra and Pacific Gas and Electric Co., which also stores batteries at the plant, to request that their operations remain offline until an investigation is complete. Local resident Ed Mitchell, who was speaking on behalf of a newly formed community group called the Moss Landing Fire Community Recovery Group, told supervisors that the potential of electric batteries is exciting. 267328 But, he added, it’s a “technology that when it goes wrong, it’s not thrilling, it’s terrifying.” Times staff writer Nathan Solis contributed to this report. More to Read Corona-area dump burdened with underground fire sought to accept debris from L.A. infernos Feb. 28, 2025 The L.A. wildfires left neighborhoods choking in ash and toxic air. Residents demand answers Jan. 30, 2025 Regulators criticized Edison’s wildfire safety actions months before deadly Eaton fire Jan. 14, 2025 Clara Harter Clara Harter is a breaking news reporter at the Los Angeles Times. Previously, she covered politics and education for the L.A. Daily News. While at the Daily News, she published a series on fentanyl addiction that won a first-place investigative journalism award from the L.A. Press Club. Harter majored in political science and Middle Eastern studies at Columbia University. She loves surfing and, when not reporting, can most likely be found in the ocean. 267429 ESCONDIDO Evacuation orders lifted in Escondido after lithium-ion battery fire at SDG&E facil ity that also prompted school closures The fire was located in the 500 block of Enterprise Street in Escondido, just a few blocks from where Interstate 15 crosses paths with state Route 78 By Danielle Smith • Published September 5, 2024 • Updated on September 7, 2024 at 1:20 pm A big improvement overnight has reghters cautiously optimistic about a lithium battery re in Escondido. NBC 7’s Nicole Gomez has more.  Watch 24/7 267530 What to Know Update: Saturday, Sept. 7, 2024: Stream San Diego News for free, 24/7, wherever you are with NBC 7.   WATCH HERE The City of Escondido on Saturday lifted all evacuation orders by noon. Those in the affected area registered with Alert San Diego and/or Genasys should have received a notification for when they were cleared to repopulate the area. Over the coming weeks, the Escondido Fire Department and SDG&E will conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the fire, according to Tyler Batson, Division Chief for the Escondido Fire Department. Get top local San Diego stories delivered to you every morning with our News Headlines newsletter.   SIGN UP Original story: A lithium-ion battery fire broke out Thursday afternoon at an SDG&E facility in the 500 block of Enterprise Street • Initial Evacuations: North of Auto Park Way, south of Mission Road, east of Auto Park Way and Alpine Way, west of Enterprise Street. An evacuation point is at Pala Casino • Schools closures: Carolyn Gilbert Education Center, the Del Dios Academy of Arts and Sciences and Rock Springs Elementary schools will be closed Friday. Limitless Learning will offer remote instruction • Road closures: Enterprise Street between Mission Road and Auto Park Way• Watch 24/7 267631 Thousands of people in Escondido are affected by an incessant fire that sparked Thursday at SDG&E’s Northeast Operations Center, a lithium-ion battery energy storage facility. The blaze sparked just after noon and is burning in the 500 block of Enterprise Street, just a few blocks from where Interstate 15 intersects with state Route 78 and quickly prompted evacuations of more than 500 businesses and 1,500 SDG&E customer homes, according to the electricity agency. By Friday morning, firefighters said they noticed all activity died around 1 a.m. and has remained that way since. County hazmat and SDG&E experts are also at the scene with environmental monitors that have not picked up on any toxic gases. Local Gas leak at Costco in La Mesa temporarily halts MTS trolley service SANDAG's annual ‘Bike Anywhere Day' takes place Thursday "It’s possible to have a flare-up again, even though we’re not seeing any outward fire activity right now and that’s all good news, but we would hate to tell people it’s safe to come back in these areas and the temperature picks up and one of those things that are been smoldering around for a while lights off, and now we’re right back to where we were yesterday," said Escondido Fire Battalion Chief Tyler Batson. This fire comes a little more than a week after the Escondido City Council took up the issue of battery energy storage within or adjacent to the North County city. Read more about the city council discussion below. 54 MINS AGO 3 HOURS AGO Watch 24/7 267732 School closures, evacuations, shelter-in-place orders The Escondido Union School District said on its website that the Carolyn Gilbert Education Center, the Del Dios Academy of Arts and Sciences and Rock Springs Elementary schools will be closed on Friday "due to the fires in the area." Limitless Learning will cancel on-campus activities but offer remote instruction, the district added. The schools listed are all within three miles of the battery fire and were placed on an evacuation order at around 3:15 p.m. on Thursday. "Operations were paused, families were contacted to pick up any remaining students on campus, and staff safely left the sites," the district said. The impacted schools are expected to be back open on Monday, according to EUSD. Residents in the pink highlighted area are under a mandatory evacuation order, while those in the purple area have been ordered to shelter in place. Watch 24/7 267833 Escondido Fire Department Battalion Chief Tyler Batson told NBC 7 that officials put together a plan to evacuate the nearby area, which includes approximately 500 businesses. About 1,500 SDG&E business customers were also affected, Batson added. According to fire officials, police officers went door-to-door to ensure everybody had left in the approximately six-square-block area. Those who are evacuated will have to remain out of the area until the fire is out, which could take hours or longer. "Immediate threat to life," a notification on the city's website states, in part. "This is a lawful order to leave now. The area is lawfully closed to public access." "The area east of Alpine Street, south of Mission Road, west of Enterprise Street, and north of Auto Park Way is under mandatory evacuation orders," according to the city of Escondido. "Please leave A re burns at a SDG&E lithium-ion battery facility in Escondido, prompting evacuations, Sept. 5, 2024. NBC 7 San DiegoNBC 7 San Diego Watch 24/7 267934 the area and head to a location away from the incident. (Notifications have been sent to those in this area)." Officials have established an evacuation point at Pala Casino, out east on SR-76. A large area to the south and west of the area has been put under a shelter-in-place order. Anybody in that area should stay in the building they're in with the windows and doors closed. SDG&E said an outage in the area beginning shortly after 4 p.m. was impacting 1,050 customers, but the utility company later said the outage was not related to the battery fire. What's on fire in Escondido? Batson said that firefighters arrived for a smoke check and found that one of the battery banks, which are the size of a small RV trailer, was on fire. Firefighters were making efforts to prevent the fire from spreading to the other banks by saturating them and keeping them cool. SkyRanger 7 arrived over the scene around 3:15 p.m. and easily located the fire with brilliant orange flames escaping the sides of the bank, which is in an area where two dozen banks are located. A half- dozen or so firefighters were located about 20-30 feet away, with the water from a pair of hoses spraying over the bank that ignited. A pair of large air-conditioning units is located on the roof of each of the banks. Escondido, like the rest of the region, is in the grip of the biggest heat wave of the summer, with the National Weather Service reporting that temperatures in the area were hitting 103 degrees at 11:15 a.m. and staying in triple digits as late as 3:45 p.m. A spokeswoman for Cal ISO (the California Independent System Operator), which operates the power grid in the state, told NBC 7 that the blaze has caused "no impacts to the bulk electric grid." On Friday morning, NBC received an updated statement from SDG&E, which was put out in conjunction with the Escondido Fire Department. “Yesterday afternoon, safety and environmental crews responded to a fire at SDG&E’s battery storage facility in Escondido. The event was limited to one of 24 battery storage containers. There Watch 24/7 268035 were no reported injuries. “Due to the nature of the systems, industry standard is to allow the fire to burn out when it can be done safely and in a controlled environment. SDG&E will continue to work closely with fire officials until the storage container has been fully extinguished, which could take up to 48 hours. “Along with the San Diego County Hazardous Materials Division, the San Diego County Health Department and the City of Escondido, SDG&E has been actively monitoring air quality at the site of the fire and in the evacuation area throughout the incident. Sampling locations and screening levels were identified under the guidance of the County and City Incident Coordinator, who have reviewed all results along with SDG&E and have determined that the air quality does not pose a health risk for those on site or in the evacuation area. “Per Escondido Fire Department, the evacuation orders and warnings will remain in place as a precautionary measure until further notice.” Lithium battery fires NBC 7 San DiegoNBC 7 San Diego Watch 24/7 268136 According to a fact sheet from SDG&E, when it was built in 2017, the 30MW/120MWh battery facility was the largest in the world. Lithium-ion fires are notoriously difficult to extinguish since they undergo a process called thermal runaway and can't use water to put it out. A recent such fire took place earlier this year down by the border. Essentially, when a battery cell combusts, the immense heat transfers to the next cell, leading it to catch fire. That heat then transfers to the next cell, and so on. “Thermal runaway is that the battery goes into ignition and combustion and it keeps going in this process until it uses up all its energy,” Neil Schultz, executive director of VTEC Laboratories told NBC 4 in New York last year. “During that period of time it gives off a large amount of heat and high temperature and it’s a good source of ignition for other objects around it or in contact with it.” Escondido City Council takes up issue of battery energy storage Just last week, the Escondido City Council passed a resolution on battery energy storage system projects in or near the city. The resolution, introduced by Escondido Mayor Dane White and Councilmember Mike Morasco, comes after energy company AES proposed the Seguro energy storage project, which would be built near Escondido and San Marcos. "I want to make clear we're not opposed to battery energy storage … I don't believe that this one in particular is located in a reasonable location," White said about the Seguro project during the Aug. 28 meeting. Watch 24/7 268237 The mayor said that a fire at an Otay Mesa energy storage facility that burned for more than a dozen days earlier this year prompted him to propose the resolution. "I thought, 'I better start paying a little bit more attention to this before the next one comes to the city of Escondido,'" White said. Although the resolution passed 4-1, this doesn't mean the Seguro project won't move forward. White, however, instructed his staff to consider a temporary ban on battery energy storage systems until "proper zoning requirements are put in." A l ithium fire burned for days by the border On May 15, a fire broke out at the Gateway Energy Storage facility in Otay Mesa, prompting evacuation orders and warnings in the surrounding areas that affected multiple businesses. Despite crews getting the blaze under control and lifting evacuation orders roughly 24 hours later, evacuations were underway again after a flare-up on May 17. A shelter-in-place order was, at one point, issued for nearby Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility. Escondido City Council - August 28, 2024Escondido City Council - August 28, 2024 Watch 24/7 268338 Evacuations were lifted again on May 28, 13 days after the fire ignited, according to Cal Fire San Diego. A re at a lithium-ion batery storage facility has ared up again, prompting evacuations. This article tagged under: ESCONDIDO U.S. Privacy Watch 24/7 268439 (https://www.energy-storage.news) SUBSCRIBE TO PREMIUM (HTTPS://WWW.ENERGY-STORAGE.NEWS/PREMIUM/)SIGN IN Search ...  NEWS (HTTPS://WWW.ENERGY-STORAGE.NEWS/CATEGORY/NEWS/) Terra-Gen to investigate cause of Valley Center California BESS re with ‘incident over’ By Cameron Murray (https://www.energy-storage.news/author/cameron-murray/) September 19, 2023 Americas (https://www.energy-storage.news/regions/americas/), US & Canada (https://www.energy-storage.news/regions/us-canada/) Grid Scale (https://www.energy-storage.news/market-segments/grid-scale/) Technology (https://www.energy-storage.news/subjects/technology/) 268540 Developer Terra-Gen will now investigate the cause of a re at its Valley Center BESS in California, with public safety measures lifted and the incident considered “over”. A battery storage unit in the Valley Center Energy Storage System caught re at approximately 5.15 pm local time yesterday (18 September), Terra-Gen said in media statement provided to Energy- Storage.news. Fire and Sheri’s departments were dispatched, roads were closed and an evacuation order for the surrounding 1/4 mile was issued, while a shelter in place for the 1/2 mile around the site was also issued, however these were only kept in place for at most four hours. The facility’s design kept the incident contained and the measures were lifted by 9.15 pm the same evening, Terra-Gen said in a statement at 5.05 am local time (Pacic Daylight Time) today (19 September). San Diego County Hazardous Materials team monitored the air and water around the site during the incident and found no hazardous conditions, the statement added, nishing: The Valley Center Energy Storage project in Southern California. Image: Terra-Gen. 268641 “Now that the incident is over, Terra-Gen will investigate the cause of the re with the support of the Valley Center Fire Department.” The project, near San Diego, was announced as online by Terra-Gen in March 2022 (https://www.energy-storage.news/terra-gen-battery-storage-560mwh-bess-valley-center-san-diego- california-online/) and has an energy storage capacity of 140MW/560MWh. It made headlines earlier this year when some 100 LG lithium-ion battery packs were stolen from late December 2022 through January 2023. Energy-Storage.news was told by Terra-Gen in March, a few weeks after the incident, that these were decommissioned, palletised and awaiting transportation to a recycling centre (https://www.energy-storage.news/lg-batteries-stolen-from-california-bess-project- were-already-decommissioned-developer-says/). Asked why these were decommissioned, the spokesperson a week later said that a “a sensor system fault triggered the water-based protection systems resulting in the batteries in question to be taken out of service”. Faulty sprinkler systems have also been described as the cause of several other notable res at large- scale battery storage projects, including Moss Landing Energy Storage Facility, also in California (https://www.energy-storage.news/terra-gen-faulty-sprinkler-system-forced-the-decommissioning-of- stolen-valley-center-lg-batteries/). battery storage (https://www.energy-storage.news/tag/battery-storage/), california (https://www.energy-storage.news/tag/california/), re (https://www.energy-storage.news/tag/re/), re mitigation (https://www.energy-storage.news/tag/re-mitigation/), re safety (https://www.energy-storage.news/tag/re-safety/), terra-gen (https://www.energy-storage.news/tag/terra-gen/), thermal runaway (https://www.energy-storage.news/tag/thermal-runaway/) 268742 April 10, 2024 |5 min read Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESSs) play a critical role in the transition to renewable energy by helping meet the growing demand for reliable, yet decentralized power on a grid-scale. 〈Insights Advanced Fire Detection and Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) Download PDF 〉〉 Contact Us 268843 What Are Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESSs)?  As the world transitions to renewable energy, Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESSs) are helping meet the growing demand for reliable, yet decentralized power on a grid scale. These systems gather surplus energy from solar and wind sources, storing it in batteries for later discharge. This process helps stabilize the grid by ensuring a steady power supply and mitigating the variability associated with renewables. Excess daytime electricity from solar farms, for instance, can be stored at a BESS facility for use overnight. More than 90% of these grid-sized energy storage systems utilize lithium-ion batteries with spending for new facilities expected to grow at an annual rate of more than 30%, reaching $12.1 billion by 2025. Lithium-ion batteries offer higher energy density, faster charging and longer life than traditional batteries. Addressing BESS Safety Concerns  Lithium-ion batteries in energy storage systems have distinct safety concerns that may present a serious re hazard unless operators understand and address the risk proactively with holistic, advanced re detection and prevention methods. Once a lithium-ion battery overheats in a BESS and the process of “thermal runaway” occurs, it can be nearly impossible to extinguish, potentially causing catastrophic damage and risking the lives of rst responders called to put out the re. Such an event occurred in April 2022 at a 10 MW storage facility in Chandler, AZ, where re crews struggled to extinguish a blaze for four days. In 2019, a re and explosion at an energy storage system in Surprise, AZ, near Phoenix, was triggered by an overheated lithium-ion battery injuring several rst responders and resulting in signicant damage to the facility and disruption to the surrounding community. Abuse Factors Lithium-ion cells are prone to failing if not kept within specic environmental conditions. When these conditions are compromised, so-called abuse factors can lead to thermal runaway. Awareness of these abuse factors can help operators prevent thermal runaway at its earliest stage. Electrical Abuse This occurs when a battery exceeds voltage limits during charge or discharge and overheats. The simultaneous operation of these batteries poses the risk that any one of the battery cells could exceed voltage limits during charge or discharge and can cause overheating that triggers a potential re event. Mechanical Abuse This can be caused by physical or mechanical damage to the battery such as a crush, indentation, or puncture from vibration or shock. Thermal Abuse Contact Us 268944 This is initiated when the operational temperature exceeds the limits of the battery. If caused by overcharging, the extra current triggers a chemical reaction that breaks down the battery’s organic liquid electrolytes and changes them from a liquid to a highly ammable gaseous state. When an abuse factor continues unaddressed, more of the liquid electrolyte from the battery will convert to gas, causing an internal build-up of pressure sufcient to vent or rupture the battery seals and resulting in an off-gassing event. Eventually, as more gas is generated, internal pressure and heat continue to increase rupturing, melting the separator, and releasing the smoke. By this point, thermal runaway is imminent. A single cell failure can quickly overheat and spread to surrounding cells. That’s why the earliest possible detection of a battery failure is crucial to preventing a potential disaster caused by thermal runaway. It is common for mobile BESS units to utilize traditional heat and smoke detectors in interior spaces, but these sensors are not equipped to provide sufciently early warning of an impending re. They are only sensitive enough to detect smoke after a re has started, which is much too late to stop thermal runaway from igniting an entire bank of batteries. Furthermore, these pre-installed systems cannot be serviced, monitored, or maintained to ensure they are in basic working order due to unit design. The Best Protection is Prevention A holistic approach using advanced detection and performance-based solutions combined with battery management systems can work together to establish layers of safety and re protection. Battery Management Systems monitor voltage, current, and temperature to identify any battery abuse factors. While this is an important initial layer, it should not be the only layer of protection. Temperature and Humidity Sensors measure the temperature of the air surrounding the sensor including ambient room temperature, shock/vibration/AC power quality and conditions. Contact Us 269045 Advanced detection innovations provide the very earliest possible intelligence about conditions inside the BESS. These early warning systems can be professionally tested, serviced, maintained, and monitored at the re alarm control panel. Thermal Imaging Cameras graphically illustrate the temperature of the objects and equipment the camera can see. Off-Gas Detection technologies can provide an alert in the initial stage of lithium-ion battery failure when venting of electrolyte solvent vapors begins and prior to thermal runaway. Very Early Warning Smoke Detection systems use ultra-sensitive sensors to provide early warning of an impending re event, buying time to initiate an appropriate emergency response to prevent injury, property damage or business disruption. If an off-gas event occurs, sensors can be used to quickly notify facility operators to shut down the system or contact rst responders to mitigate the spread of re from cell to cell. Responding to the Ever-Evolving Fire and Life Safety Industry  Fire and life safety industry standards are evolving to minimize the re risks associated with BESSs. Ensuring appropriate criteria to address the safety of such systems in building codes and re codes is an important part of protecting the public, building occupants, and emergency responders. International Fire Code (IFC) 2021 1207.8.3 Chapter 12, Energy Systems requires that storage batteries, prepackaged stationary storage battery systems, and pre-engineered stationary storage battery systems are segregated into stationary battery bundles not exceeding 50 kWh each, and each bundle is spaced a minimum separation of 10 feet apart and from the building wall. National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) 855 establishes requirements for design, construction, installation, commissioning, operation, maintenance and decommissioning of stationary energy storage systems and applies to battery installations over 70 kWh. UL 9540—Standard for Safety Energy Storage Systems and Equipment outlines safety requirements for the integrated components of an energy storage system requiring that electrical, electro-chemical, mechanical and thermal energy Contact Us 269146 storage systems operate at an optimal safety level. UL 9540A—Test Method for Evaluating Thermal Runaway Fire Propagation in Battery Energy Storage Systems implements quantitative data standards to characterize potential battery storage re events and establishes battery storage system re testing on the cell level, module level, unit level and installation level. Because these requirements are continuously evolving, careful investigation of all standards must be performed before beginning the design, construction, installation, and operation of a BESS. Lithium-ion battery storage facilities are pivotal to the transition to a greener economy. Just as eco-friendly technology is evolving to strengthen the renewable energy industry, advanced re prevention and life safety technology must also advance to protect it. Off-gas detection, very early warning smoke detection and thermal imaging camera systems combined with advanced alarm monitoring can help keep BESSs operating at the highest levels of safety. Fire Detection and Prevention Solutions Everon’s advanced detection technologies and performance-based solutions for Battery Energy Storage Systems work together to establish layers of safety and re prevention—beyond the prescriptive code minimum requirements. Energy Storage Protection Contact Us 269247