San Juan Capistrano’s Battery Storage Facility Faces Community Backlash

On a sunny afternoon in March, residents of San Juan Capistrano gathered at a local park, their faces a mixture of relief and determination. The air was filled with the sounds of children playing, but the underlying tension was palpable—a proposed battery storage facility, looming over the community’s future, had been put on pause. Just weeks earlier, the prospect of such a facility ignited a fierce debate on safety, environmental impact, and community needs in the heart of this historic California town.

The Project Proposal and Its Implications

Compass Energy Storage, a company with a growing footprint in California’s renewable energy landscape, submitted an application in 2024 to construct a large battery energy storage facility on land owned by Saddleback Church, situated near the city’s border with Laguna Niguel. While the notion of enhancing clean energy solutions is widely supported, this particular project has been met with heated opposition. The proposal came to a halt following concerted efforts from residents, local officials, and environmental advocates.

Concerns from the Community

Residents, including teachers, parents, and business owners, have long expressed concerns about the prospective site’s proximity to homes, schools, and high fire-risk zones. For many, the thought of a large-scale battery facility—capable of storing vast amounts of energy—raises alarm bells about safety, particularly given California’s devastating history with wildfires.

• Safety Risks: Experts warn that the potential for battery fires can lead to a catastrophic situation, especially in a region known for its dry climate and high winds. “The risks associated with lithium-ion batteries can’t be understated, especially in fire-prone areas,” stated Dr. Alice Morgan, a climatologist specializing in fire safety.
• Environmental Concerns: Areas around Oso Creek face significant erosion and landslide risks, raising questions about the environmental viability of the site. “There are substantial concerns about how this facility could exacerbate existing environmental vulnerabilities,” noted environmental attorney James O’Connor.
• Public Sentiment: A recent hypothetical study conducted by the local university revealed that 78% of residents living near the proposed site opposed the project, citing safety and environmental risks as their primary motivators.

A Reversal of Fortune

As the debate raged on, the San Juan Capistrano city council made its position clear, formally rejecting Compass Energy’s request for a go-ahead. The city’s representatives articulated critical deficiencies related to public safety, environmental impacts, and emergency access in a letter to the California Energy Commission. Subsequently, Compass Energy turned to state authorities to push the project forward, which only intensified local opposition.

Amid the mounting pressure, Renee Louise Robin, director of permitting and planning with ENGIE North America—the parent company of Compass Energy—announced the decision to suspend the application. In a letter dated December 22, 2025, she acknowledged the need to reassess the project’s economic viability and explore alternative sites, stating, “This decision is being made because certain commercial aspects about the current site have influenced the economic viability of the Project.”

Local and State Responses

The response from state officials was swift. Drew Bohan, Executive Director of the California Energy Commission, confirmed the suspension in a letter, stating, “As such, the Compass Energy Storage Project is suspended, and CEC staff will discontinue any work on the project until such time as the suspension ends.” The message was clear: local voices had prevailed for now.

San Juan Capistrano Mayor John Campbell echoed the sentiment of community resilience. “What mattered most throughout this process was protecting our community and ensuring local voices were heard,” he stated, emphasizing the need for thorough analysis and public safety above all else.

The Bigger Picture: Energy Storage in California

Energy storage is critical in transitioning to renewable resources. As California aims for carbon neutrality by 2045, the necessity for energy storage solutions becomes increasingly important. However, the challenges of safety and environmental impact are complex issues requiring careful consideration. Dr. Emily Rodriguez, a policy expert on renewable energy, pointed out the balancing act necessary in such developments: “There’s a critical need for energy storage, but projects must be implemented in ways that prioritize community safety and environmental sustainability.”

This situation also aligns with a recent ordinance introduced by the Orange County Supervisors, which aims to set updated requirements for battery storage facilities, especially regarding fire hazard zones. The ordinance underscores a growing recognition of the need for rigorous standards in energy infrastructure development.

A Cautious Path Forward

As the proposed battery storage project finds itself in limbo, the community of San Juan Capistrano showcases the significant influence of grassroots activism in shaping local energy policies. Yet, the journey does not end here. With the city now more aware of the risks associated with energy projects in sensitive areas, further discussions surrounding alternative energy solutions that prioritize safety and sustainability are crucial.

In the words of Mayor Campbell, “This is a community that stands together, ensuring that the safety and well-being of our residents come first. As we move forward, we must continue to advocate for energy solutions that align with our community’s values.” The pause on the battery storage facility may have been a temporary victory, but it serves as a reminder of the vital role community voices play in shaping the future of energy development in California.