‘We’re not guinea pigs’ — Cities fight plans for large battery energy storage systems over fears they will go up in flames

Cities are pushing back against plans for large battery energy storage systems due to safety concerns following a fire at a facility in Moss Landing, California. This incident, which occurred in January, released toxic smoke and led to the evacuation of around 1,500 residents. The fear of similar events has sparked a debate about the safety and regulation of such energy systems, highlighting the need for stricter oversight to protect communities.