A battery storage site in East Lothian raises concerns over potential acid release, prompting councillors to seek safety assurances and community input.
People want the council to oppose the site. A fire could impact homes nearby, and some worry about a lack of safety measures.
Brian Hall spoke to the council committee, stating that the batteries could release acid that dissolves flesh if things go wrong. He mentioned fires at California battery sites as examples. Community councils also objected due to safety concerns.
Norman Hampshire thinks battery sites are sustainable. He dismissed fire worries and concerns about closeness to homes, stating fire impacts everyone, regardless of location. He thinks the fire risk is low and believes battery technology will improve. He feels the technology is safe since it’s used globally.
Councillors approved the storage site last summer. It sits southwest of the old power station. The site was split for paperwork reasons, and applications returned for comment.
The Scottish Government approves the project. The council can only comment or object. Hampshire said objecting leads to a costly public inquiry they’d lose.
Some councillors worry about fire safety input. They criticize the lack of community involvement in emergency planning.
Jamie Scott represents the applicant, Cockenzie Storage Ltd. He stated emergency plans are in place, and the facility will have remote monitoring.
The committee voted to back officers’ recommendations and will not object to the plans. However, they want fire safety ensured. They want planning officers in future talks and will demand community voices are heard.
