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County plans zoning and CEQA work for battery storage and solar in East County; staff expects 4–6 month roadshow
Summary
Planning staff told supervisors they will prepare a General Plan amendment and zoning ordinance to allow battery energy storage and solar projects in the East County Area Plan and to begin CEQA and outreach over the next 4–6 months; public commenters raised safety concerns citing the Moss Landing fire.
Alameda County planning staff updated the Transportation, Mobility and Planning Committee on proposed amendments to the East County Area Plan and zoning ordinance to allow utility‑scale solar and battery energy storage systems.
Staff said the work includes a CEQA document and a public roadshow—engagement events with advisory groups—and estimated a 4–6 month timeline for outreach and draft documents. Two projects were cited as moving through permitting: the Viridi Potentia project (which is before the California Energy Commission) and a NextEra project pursuing local pre‑application review.
Deputy County Counsel Melanie O’Brien cautioned committee members against discussing specifics of projects during an informational update so as not to undermine notice and CEQA procedures.
Public commenters referenced the Moss Landing battery‑storage fire and urged regulators to require safer chemistries (lithium‑iron phosphate, LFP), modular designs and stronger monitoring and control systems; one commenter noted recent industry moves to LFP and modularization to reduce thermal‑runaway risks.
What’s next: Staff said the roadshow and CEQA process will proceed, staff will continue coordinating with applicants and agencies, and supervisors asked for a progress report in about six months.
Sources: Presentation by planning staff and public comment recorded during the meeting.
