A devastating fire broke out at the Vistra battery facility, located at the Moss Landing Power Plant in Monterey County, California, on Thursday, forcing local officials to order immediate evacuations in the surrounding area. The facility, which is the world’s largest battery plant, was engulfed in flames, raising concerns about the potential environmental and health impacts of the blaze.

According to eyewitnesses, the fire started in the late afternoon and quickly spread throughout the facility, prompting emergency responders to rush to the scene. The cause of the fire is currently unknown and is under investigation.

The Moss Landing Power Plant, which is operated by Vistra Energy, is a major source of electricity for the region, providing power to thousands of homes and businesses. The battery facility, which was completed in 2020, is designed to store excess energy generated by the plant’s natural gas-fired turbines and release it back into the grid when needed.

Monterey County officials took swift action in response to the fire, ordering evacuations in the surrounding area as a precautionary measure. Residents were advised to stay away from the area until further notice, and nearby roads were closed to prevent access to the site.

The fire has raised concerns about the potential environmental impacts of the blaze, particularly given the facility’s proximity to the Monterey Bay. The bay is a sensitive ecosystem that is home to a diverse array of marine life, including sea otters, seals, and sea lions.

“This is a very serious situation, and we are working closely with emergency responders and regulatory agencies to ensure that the fire is brought under control as quickly and safely as possible,” said a spokesperson for Vistra Energy. “We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused and will provide updates as more information becomes available.”

The incident has also raised questions about the safety of large-scale battery facilities, which are becoming increasingly common as the world transitions to renewable energy sources. While battery storage is seen as a crucial component of a low-carbon future, incidents like this highlight the need for robust safety protocols and emergency response plans to mitigate the risks associated with these facilities.

As the investigation into the cause of the fire continues, officials are working to assess the full extent of the damage and determine the best course of action to restore the facility to operation. For now, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of the public and the environment.