Local residents demonstrate concern over proposed lithium battery storage near Saddleback College.
Residents of Laguna Niguel, Mission Viejo, and San Juan Capistrano are voicing strong opposition to a proposed lithium battery storage facility near Saddleback College. Concerns regarding safety and environmental impacts, particularly in relation to wildfire risks, have been raised. Compass Energy Storage plans a 250-megawatt plant on land purchased from Saddleback Church. Despite economic potential, locals fear safety hazards and seek community engagement from the church. An upcoming scoping meeting by the California Energy Commission aims to address public concerns.
California – A proposed lithium battery storage plant near Saddleback College has ignited strong opposition among residents in the surrounding communities of Laguna Niguel, Mission Viejo, and San Juan Capistrano. The project, spearheaded by Compass Energy Storage, aims to build a 250-megawatt battery energy storage system on a 13-acre plot purchased from Saddleback Church, raising safety and environmental concerns among local stakeholders.
The site for the proposed plant is strategically located near the 5 Freeway and Camino Capistrano, prompting fears about potential hazards, especially in relation to wildfire risks. Residents have voiced apprehension that the facility could pose safety threats, particularly because it is situated at the base of a hill where smoke and toxic substances could easily spread during a fire. Recent incidents, including a lithium-ion battery fire at a storage facility in Northern California that resulted in evacuations, underscore the serious risks associated with such infrastructure. This fire notably burned for over 14 days, illustrating the challenges of extinguishing lithium battery fires.
Opposing community members have expressed frustration, particularly towards Saddleback Church for its lack of engagement with local residents regarding the development plans. These concerns are compounded by the church’s fundamental principle of community love and support, which residents feel has not been adhered to in this situation. Notably, one concerned resident has lived in Laguna Niguel’s Concord Hill neighborhood for 29 years and questioned the appropriateness of the proposed location.
In response to community outcry, a representative from Saddleback Church emphasized that the church is not involved in the decision-making process surrounding land use. The church stressed the importance of health, safety, and environmental evaluations in the review of the project.
Compass Energy Storage, which is owned by ENGIE, asserts that it is committed to safety and compliance with local and state regulations. The company has indicated that fire safety measures will be a core component of the plant’s design, aiming to mitigate the risks commonly associated with lithium battery storage facilities.
Despite the concerns, proponents of the project highlight potential economic benefits exceeding $50 million, which could be significant for the local community. Support for the project comes from a coalition that includes the Orange County Business Council and the Orange County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, both of which underscore the potential for job creation and economic growth.
To address community concerns and gather public input, the California Energy Commission is organizing an information and environmental scoping meeting. This event is expected to provide a platform for residents to express their views and receive information about the project.
Additionally, in a related development, Eos Energy Enterprises has announced plans to provide zinc-based battery storage technology for a tribal microgrid project in Northern California. This project will include solar power, non-lithium battery storage, fuel cells, and diesel generators, and is expected to enhance energy independence for the Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians, with commissioning anticipated in the latter half of 2026.
In a broader context, the California Public Utilities Commission has recently approved comprehensive regulations overseeing battery energy storage systems for the first time. These regulations will establish maintenance, operation, and incident reporting standards for such facilities, reflecting growing concerns about safety and the environmental impact of battery storage technologies.
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