Moss Landing Power Plant Fire Forces Evacuations, Road Closures, and Prompts Hazard Warnings

Breaking: Battery Fire Ignites at Moss Landing Power Plant, Triggering Evacuations

A fire erupted at the Moss Landing Power Plant’s massive battery storage facility on Tuesday, January 16, 2025, prompting mandatory evacuations for approximately 2,000 residents and raising concerns about the safety of large-scale battery storage technology. The blaze, which began around 3 p.m., sent plumes of thick black smoke billowing into the sky, visible for miles. This marks the third fire at this facility in recent years, following incidents in 2021 and 2022.

Evacuation Orders and Road Closures Disrupt Moss Landing

The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office issued mandatory evacuation orders at approximately 6:30 p.m. for residents south of Elkhorn Slough, north of Molera Road and Monterey Dunes Way, and west of Castroville Boulevard and Elkhorn Road, extending to the coastline. The evacuation zones include MRY-B037, MRY-B047, MRY-B050, MRY-B051, MRY-B053, MRY-B058, and MRY-B060. The Castroville Recreation Center at 11261 Crane St. is serving as a temporary evacuation center.

Highway 1, a crucial coastal artery, is closed in both directions near the plant between Salinas Road and Merritt Street, significantly impacting travel in the region. Northbound traffic is being diverted at Highway 183, and southbound traffic at Struve Road. Dolan Road and Castroville Boulevard are also closed.

Health Concerns and School Closures Add to Disruptions

Health officials are warning about potentially hazardous chemicals in the smoke emanating from the burning lithium-ion batteries. Residents in the wider area, including Santa Cruz County, are advised to stay indoors, close windows and doors, and turn off ventilation systems as a precaution.

All schools and offices in the North Monterey County Unified School District are closed Friday, January 18, 2025, due to the fire and air quality concerns. This closure impacts over 4,500 students.

Firefighting Efforts and Controlled Burn Strategy

Firefighters are employing a controlled burn strategy, allowing the fire to burn itself out under close supervision while working to contain it within the battery storage building. Drones are being deployed to monitor the fire’s progress and assess air quality. Early estimates suggest approximately 40% of the battery storage building has been damaged. All site personnel were safely evacuated, according to Vistra Energy, the plant’s owner.

Investigation Underway, Questions Remain about Future of Battery Storage

The cause of the fire is currently unknown and under investigation. Monterey County Supervisor Glenn Church characterized the situation as a “disaster” but expressed hope that the fire could be contained. This incident raises concerns about the safety and long-term viability of large-scale lithium-ion battery storage facilities, a key component of California’s energy future.

Some experts suggest that current safety regulations may be inadequate for these large installations, while others emphasize the need for ongoing research into alternative battery chemistries. The investigation’s findings will likely shape future regulations and influence the development of safer energy storage technologies.

This latest fire renews concerns about the recurring nature of these incidents at the Moss Landing facility. Previous fires in 2021 and 2022 highlight potential vulnerabilities in these systems, prompting experts to call for a thorough assessment of current safety protocols and greater investment in preventative measures.

Key Information at a Glance:

Detail	Information
Plant Owner	Vistra Energy
Facility Type	Lithium-ion Battery Storage
Capacity	750 MW (3,000 MWh after the 2023 expansion)
Damaged Area	Approximately 40% of the battery storage building
Evacuation Center	Castroville Recreation Center, 11261 Crane St.

What’s Next?

The immediate focus remains on containing the fire, ensuring public safety, and supporting displaced residents. However, the long-term consequences of this fire will likely extend beyond Moss Landing, impacting California’s energy grid and possibly influencing the future of battery storage technology. The ongoing investigation could reveal critical insights into the cause of the fire and lead to changes in safety regulations and industry best practices. While the situation remains fluid, this incident underscores the complex challenges involved in transitioning to renewable energy sources and the importance of ensuring the safety and reliability of these technologies. It also highlights the need for transparency and ongoing communication with the public as the investigation unfolds and as we learn more about the long-term implications of this event.