Developer New Leaf assures Watsonville officials its battery storage project would meet safety standards

Developer New Leaf is currently seeking approval from Watsonville officials for a new battery energy storage project. Local officials and residents have expressed concerns regarding the safety protocols, particularly concerning potential fire risks associated with large-scale lithium-ion battery installations. In response, New Leaf provided assurances to the Watsonville City Council that the facility would adhere strictly to all required state and local safety standards and feature advanced fire suppression technologies. This dialogue aims to alleviate public concerns and ensure the project can safely contribute to the region's energy needs.