Fire-damaged Moss Landing facility cleanup begins, battery removal set for September

The U. S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will begin the removal of burnt batteries from the Moss Landing Energy Storage Facility in September, with cleanup efforts expected to last approximately a year. The facility has remained offline since a massive fire on January 16 that burned for two days, leading to evacuations and widespread public health concerns. Following the fire, the EPA and Vistra Corp.

reached an agreement on July 17 to oversee the disposal of damaged batteries, addressing California's request for EPA oversight. Kazami Brockman, the EPA’s on-scene coordinator, highlighted the need for an emergency response plan due to the potential instability of the damaged batteries. Initial activities will involve clearing access to the building, partial demolition, and reinforcing structures for safe battery retrieval. Dust control and community air monitoring measures are already in place to protect public health. After removal, the batteries will be inspected and treated on-site before off-site disposal.

This proactive response aims to mitigate risks associated with the hazardous materials involved.