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Public commenter urges caution on battery energy storage risks and site erosion
Summary
A resident raised safety and environmental concerns about battery energy storage systems (BESS) including fire risks and erosion on sloped sites, referencing high-profile incidents elsewhere and asking the commission to consider setbacks and suppression measures.
During public comment at the end of the April 15 workshop, Tom Thompson of Pullman urged caution in permitting battery energy storage systems and on siting solar on slopes.
"With battery energy storage systems, Google Moss Landing," Thompson said, referencing the high-profile Moss Landing battery fire and its aftermath. He urged the commission to consider the potential for fires and toxic releases in BESS design and setbacks and to be mindful of erosion and grading impacts for hillside solar installations.
Commissioners acknowledged the safety concerns and said fire-suppression, spacing between battery units and emergency response considerations would be folded into code and permit review as the CAO and siting language move through SEPA and subsequent hearings.
