Cardwell Corridor Lithium Battery Storage facility is in the works.
Did you know? We didn't.
Join us in our mission to protect Goochland's Cardwell Road Corridor from potential risks from the proposed battery energy storage system, "Melrose Energy Center". It is moving fast behind the scenes without community awareness and time to learn and engage in this fight is now. Lets stop it in its tracks by increasing awareness, education about battery storage, and letting the Board of Supervisors know we expect them to vote "No" on the upcoming Conditional Use Permit request. This site is intended to bring us together and organize this fight with resources a click away.
The concern
Residential Goochland areas are not suited for dangerous Lithium battery storage
For so many reasons, the proposed “Melrose Energy Center” (aka a lithium battery storage farm and sub station) should not be approved to happen in it’s proposed rural/residential location. If built at all, it needs to be in an industrial park type of area with modern fire fighting infrastructure nearby.
SAFTEY CONCERNS
Fire and Explosion Risks:
Battery Energy Storage Systems, or BESS, pose significant fire and explosion hazards. The risk of thermal runaway can lead to catastrophic events that have happened recently around our country and beyond as shown on the news videos and articles on this site.
Inadequate Safety Standards:
Current safety codes and standards may be insufficient to address the full range of risks associated with BESS, especially regarding thermal runaway and explosion prevention.
First Responder Dangers:
In the event of a fire or explosion, first responders may face serious risks, as demonstrated by incidents like the one in McMicken, Arizona, where firefighters were injured.
ENVIROMENTAL AND HEALTH IMPACTS:
Toxic Emissions:
BESS fires may produce significant air quality issues, potential toxic fumes and toxic environmental contamination during thermal events that will spread to surrounding areas.
Noise Pollution:
BESS facilities can generate noise, which may disrupt the peaceful environment of rural communities.
ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY CONCERNS:
Property Value Decline:
The presence of a BESS facility not only contradicts Goochland’s rural zoning laws and comprehensive plan but may lead to decreased property values in the surrounding area due to perceived risks, loss of character and visual impact.
Limited Local Benefits:
Rural communities may not see significant economic benefits from hosting a BESS facility, especially compared to the potential risks involved.
Energy Inefficiency:
BESS systems can experience significant energy losses, with up to 40% of stored energy lost in a round trip of charging and discharging.
02.
Interim: Do more. Not less. Now.
Right now while we wait for the next meeting date, sign the petition, write your Supervisor (or all of the Supervisors), and talk to your neighbors to get the word out.
03.
Board of Supervisors Meeting to be scheduled in May
Check back for date, not yet scheduled. This will be open to public.