Investigators probe Moss Landing battery fire caused by thermal runaway incidents

The Santa Maria Planning Commission meeting on March 19, 2025, focused on the ongoing investigation into the Moss Landing incident, which has raised concerns about battery storage safety and environmental contamination.

During the meeting, officials discussed the findings from air, water, and soil testing at the Moss Landing facility, where contamination has been detected. The facility, which was converted from a power plant to battery storage, has faced scrutiny following a fire believed to be caused by older battery technology. The batteries, stacked openly within the building, were susceptible to a phenomenon known as thermal runaway, where overheating can lead to a cascading series of reactions, ultimately resulting in fire.

Visual aids presented during the meeting highlighted the extent of the damage, particularly in the eastern portion of the building, where the roof collapsed due to the fire. However, nearby units remained unaffected, indicating that not all battery storage setups are equally at risk.

Commission members expressed the need for further investigation into the incident and the potential regulatory implications. While some cities, like Morro Bay, have enacted moratoriums on battery storage, Santa Maria officials emphasized the importance of not completely prohibiting such facilities, as technology continues to evolve.

The discussions underscored the ongoing challenges and considerations surrounding battery storage safety and environmental impact, with no clear regulatory framework established yet. The commission plans to monitor developments closely as investigations continue.