A large proportion of local residents recognize BESS projects offer multiple benefits, but concerns about the safety of battery storage remain.
Despite high levels of support for the benefits of BESS projects among residents in Imperial County in California, more than a third of local people say their biggest worry about battery energy storage system (BESS) projects centers on toxic leaks and fire risks, according to a new survey.
Research conducted by Firetrace International showed that 36% of residents’ primary concern regarding BESS was “potential toxic leaks or hazardous materials” or fire and explosion risks. Meanwhile, nearly half (44%) of Imperial County residents said the biggest barrier to public acceptance of BESS projects was concern about health and safety risks or “insufficient local government and fire service preparedness”.
Imperial County not only has one of the highest concentrations of BESS projects in the US, but also the world. Generally speaking, local residents see considerable benefits to such projects, with one in four (24%) viewing reductions in carbon emissions and air pollution as the biggest benefit of BESS. Meanwhile, 22% say the biggest benefit is “cheaper electricity bills”, with an identical proportion (22%) claiming that the main advantage of BESS projects is that they provide “economic benefits such as job creation”. A total of 18 per cent said “reliable power” was the most important benefit BESS brought to the community. The overwhelming support for BESS in Imperial County is demonstrated by the fact that only 8% of local residents do not believe that such technology offers any benefits.
Locals have significant concerns about BESS safety
However, despite the fact that the Imperial County population, generally speaking, have a favorable view of BESS projects and the benefits they offer, it should also be noted that local people also have significant concerns about the safety of such projects. Due to concerns about fire and explosion risks, potential toxic leaks and hazardous materials, the vast majority of the county’s residents believe more could be done to make BESS projects safer.
A total of 28% of Imperial County residents believe regular inspections and testing would be the best way to improve BESS safety. Meanwhile, an identical proportion (28%) thought “comprehensive emergency response plans” was the most effective way to make such projects safer. A total of 14 per cent thought fire suppression and battery monitoring technologies would be the best way of increasing BESS safety. However, a significant majority of Imperial County residents (82%) agreed that advanced fire suppression systems and emergency response plans would make them more likely to support BESS projects in their area. One in five residents (20%) thought stricter planning regulations would make BESS projects safer.
Tackling fire risk should be a key priority
With the lives of first responders, billions of dollars of energy storage investment, and potentially the battery storage industry’s reputation at risk in California and elsewhere, developers and owners must make fire safety a key priority. In addition to the potential danger to life, battery storage fire incidents can be extremely damaging financially, and could cost developers, owners or operators up to $2 million as a result of the catastrophic loss of an asset and loss of revenue from up to 18 months’ worth of downtime.
Consequently, it is crucial to perform continuous analysis and review to ensure compliance with the latest requirements and regulations concerning energy storage safety as this will maintain optimal safety standards. It is vital that organizations stay vigilant and adapt to changes to effectively manage energy storage system risks.
Consideration should also be given to the inclusion of a battery management system, which monitors, controls, and optimizes the performance of individual or multiple battery modules, and can also control the disconnection of the modules from the system in the event of abnormal conditions.
It should also be noted that only 11% of fires and explosions are linked to battery module failures, according to EPRI (Electric Power Research Institute), with 43% stemming from failures in electrical equipment such as PCS (power conversion systems), and 46% attributable to control equipment malfunctions.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Joe DeBellis serves as the Global Head of Clean Energy at Firetrace International, bringing more than a decade of experience in the renewable energy sector. With a deep understanding of both clean energy innovation and fire safety, Joe is recognized as a trusted industry voice on the trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the future of the sector.
A frequent speaker and thought leader, Joe has presented at major industry events, including ACP’s Clean Power, where he has shared insights on advancing safety and reliability within renewable energy assets. His expertise has also been featured across multiple publications and media platforms, most recently on the Clean Power Hour podcast and in leading clean energy news outlets.
Known for his ability to connect technical expertise with practical solutions, Joe continues to serve as a reliable resource for organizations navigating the evolving renewable energy landscape, with a particular focus on ensuring safe and sustainable growth.