California Governor Gavin Newsom signed Senate Bill 283, written by Senator John Laird (D-Santa Cruz), passed into law last week. The bill, sponsored by the California Professional Firefighters and the California State Association of Electrical Workers, strengthens safety standards surrounding the development of energy storage facilities and strengthens coordination with fire officials.
File photo of Moss Landing and the inverters outside the building that houses the lithium-ion batteries.
“California must prioritize safety every step of the way as it expands battery storage to achieve its clean energy goals,” said Senator 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 every step along the way. I thank Governor Newsom for signing this bill into law to protect first responders, local communities and the integrity of our renewable energy transition.”
Senate Bill 283 was introduced in response to the Moss Landing battery storage fire that left a lasting impact on the community. Since January’s fire, state environmental and energy agencies and local government have urged investigations into the incident, encouraged appropriate monitoring of environmental and public health impacts, and secured funding for scientific research into the fire’s effects.
Under SB 283, battery storage developers are required to contact local fire departments before submitting an application. This consultation should include facility design, assessing potential risks and integrating contingency plans. A facility must undergo a safety inspection by local fire officials before the facility can go online. SB 283 ensures that the facility owner covers the costs of inspections, strengthening accountability in the permitting process. SB 283 also directs the state to review facility configurations, including restrictions on development within flammable buildings, to prevent another incident like Moss Landing.
Senate Bill 283 takes effect January 1, 2026.
News item from Senator Laird
