California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed Senate Bill 283, authored by state Sen. John Laird (D-Santa Cruz), into law last week. The bill, sponsored by the California Professional Firefighters and the California State Association of Electrical Workers, strengthens safety standards around the development of energy storage facilities and bolsters coordination with fire officials.
Archival photo of Moss Landing, and the inverters outside the building housing the lithium-ion battery banks.
“California must prioritize safety at every step when expanding battery storage to meet its clean energy goals,” said Sen. Laird. “SB 283 ensures that future battery storage facilities are developed with safety and the community in mind, and that our fire officials are involved in every step along the way. I thank Governor Newsom for signing this bill to protect first responders, local communities, and the integrity of our renewable energy transition.”
Senate Bill 283 was introduced following the Moss Landing battery storage fire that left lingering effects on the community. Since the January fire, state environmental and energy agencies and local government has pushed for investigations into the incident, encourage appropriate monitoring of environmental and public health impacts, and secure funding for scientific studies into the impacts of the fire.
Under SB 283, battery storage developers will be required to engage with local fire authorities prior to submitting an application. This consultation must address facility design, assess potential risks and integrate emergency response plans. A facility will be required to undergo a safety inspection by local fire officials before the facility can go online. SB 283 ensures that the facility owner covers the cost of inspections, reinforcing accountability in the permitting process. SB 283 also directs the state to review the configuration of facilities, including limitations on development within combustible buildings to avoid another incident like Moss Landing.
Senate Bill 283 will go into effect January 1, 2026.
News item from Sen. Laird
