Washington’s Energy Safety Programs keeps our communities prepared while ensuring clean, safe and reliable energy. The Energy Resilience and Emergency Management Office created the Energy Safety Program to help Washington communities safely adopt and operate clean energy technologies. While the current focus is on Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), we are also preparing for the next generation of emerging energy solutions. Through accessible training and ongoing research, we will strive to protect communities, support emergency responders with reliable information, and provide clear, unbiased guidance that encourages safe and responsible energy practices.
Key objectives
- Work with communities to establish standards for siting and permitting utility-scale BESS and other clean energy storage technology.
- Educate the public on energy safety and environmental considerations.
- Provide safety recommendations for emergency response agencies in coordination with our colleagues at the State Fire Marshall’s Office.
Resources
In case of an on-site emergency, contact your local emergency services by dialing 911.
Q: What is a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS)?
A: A BESS stores energy for later use, improving grid reliability and supporting renewable energy.
Q: Are BESS installations safe?
A: They are safe when properly designed and maintained. Safety standards and monitoring systems reduce risks.
Q: What causes battery fires?
A: Most incidents result from thermal runaway due to overheating, physical damage, or manufacturing defects.
Q: What is thermal runaway?
A: A thermal runaway occurs when a battery cell short-circuits and heats uncontrollably. As heat spreads between cells in a module, it can start a chain reaction where the batteries keep generating heat on their own.
Q: What should I do if I suspect a battery hazard?
A: Stay clear of the area, call 911, and report any smoke, odor or unusual heat.
Q: What can the Energy Safety Program do for my community that is considering BESS or other energy storage systems?
A: The Energy Safety Program can provide technical assistance in the form of best practices, current standards, and meetings with local planners to discuss any questions or concerns. For more information, please contact our office.
Safety tips for residents
- Don’t attempt to extinguish a battery fire yourself.
- Report any unusual signs immediately to emergency services.
- Make sure to properly dispose of and recycle batteries to prevent contamination.
State law (RCW 36.70A.390, RCW 35A.63.220) allows jurisdictions to impose moratoria, or a waiting period, to provide time to study and draft zoning rules.
Local government can adopt a moratorium but must hold a public hearing within 60 days.
Moratorium can be in effect for up to one year if a work plan is developed for related studies.
A moratorium can be renewed for one or more six-month periods (a public hearing is required for each renewal).
Jurisdictions with current moratoria on BESS:
- Auburn – through November 2025
- Maple Valley – through December 2025
- Enumclaw – through February 2026
- Black Diamond – through March 2026
- Mount Vernon – through May 2026
- Kitsap County – through June 2026