Developer New Leaf guarantees Watsonville officials that its battery storage project will comply with safety regulations.

At a recent meeting, developers from New Leaf Energy presented their case to Watsonville city officials regarding the proposed battery storage facility, aimed at alleviating concerns stemming from a prior fire incident at a nearby facility. The informational session highlighted both safety measures and the potential advantages of the new project.

The facility, dubbed “Seahawk,” is planned for construction on a 14-acre site at 90 Minto Road, just outside the Watsonville city limits. With a projected cost of $200 million and a capacity of 200 megawatts, the project is currently awaiting approval at the county level. Notably, the Watsonville City Council will not vote on the project because it resides in unincorporated county territory. The purpose of the meeting was primarily to provide information and address the city officials’ concerns.

Project lead Max Christian reassured the council about safety protocols, affirming that the facility would comply with National Fire Protection Association standards, newly enacted state legislation, and forthcoming county regulations. These measures are essential, especially considering the recent catastrophic fire at the world’s largest battery storage site in Moss Landing, which raised alarms about the safety of such facilities.

This wildfire, which ignited in January 2025 and extended through various phases until mid-February, underscored the importance of rigorous safety standards in the operation of battery storage sites. The concerns surrounding this incident have led local residents to scrutinize similar projects in the area.

Christian elucidated that the Seahawk facility would utilize LFP (lithium iron phosphate) batteries, a technology he argues is significantly safer than the NMC (nickel manganese cobalt) batteries employed at the Moss Landing site. The latter has a higher propensity for thermal runaway, potentially leading to dangerous fire situations. In contrast, LFP batteries are recognized for their stability and lower risk of combustion, making them a preferable choice for this project.

Despite the assurances, some community members expressed skepticism during the meeting. They were not permitted to ask questions following the presentation, leading to visible frustration among residents. Councilmember Ari Parker advocated for allowing public commentary, reflecting the community’s desire to engage in the conversation surrounding such a crucial project.

Mayor Maria Orozco highlighted the importance of considering the potential impact of the facility on Watsonville and the surrounding Pajaro Valley. She indicated that the city might draft a letter addressing concerns related to the proximity of the facility to schools and residential neighborhoods, a sentiment that resonates deeply with local residents who are apprehensive about safety.

Looking ahead, the city plans to host a community forum before the county board’s approval meeting on November 18. It aims to foster more dialogue between developers and community members, facilitating a transparent exchange of information and addressing local concerns effectively.

In this environment of heightened scrutiny and caution, New Leaf Energy’s Seahawk facility represents a significant investment in renewable energy for Santa Cruz County. As this initiative unfolds, its success will depend on careful adherence to safety standards, community engagement, and innovative technology designed to mitigate risks.

With community concerns at the forefront, the conversation surrounding battery storage solutions in California is evolving. The Seahawk facility could be a pivotal step in balancing the need for sustainable energy infrastructure while addressing the safety and well-being of local residents.