As an LPEA member-owner, I’m concerned about the proposed Battery Energy Storage System project the co-op is pursuing. Before moving forward, members deserve considerably more transparency about the true cost, the risks and the long-term commitments this project places on all of us.
LPEA received a $2 million grant, but that number tells us very little. What is the total cost of this project? Who pays the difference, LPEA members or another outside partner? What are the projected annual maintenance, insurance and safety-compliance costs? None of this has been disclosed, yet these are the questions that ultimately determine future rates.
Another serious concern is safety. LPEA says the risk of fire is low, but “low” is not the same as “zero,” and battery failures, even with safer lithium-iron-phosphate chemistry, still require strict planning and emergency protocols. According to the EPA:
- Lithium battery fires are extremely difficult to extinguish and may reignite hours or days later.
- Battery fires release harmful toxins that pose health risks to residents and first responders.
- Proper cleanup and disposal of damaged batteries requires specialized procedures.
Member-owners are not being unreasonable by asking for full transparency. At a minimum, members should see: the complete project cost, safety plans, setback distances, emergency-response modeling, environmental review and a clear explanation of how this project impacts future rates.
A project of this scale shouldn’t move forward without clear, complete, and honest information. LPEA works for its members, not the other way around. We deserve answers before commitments and approvals are given.
Sue McWilliams
Durango
