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Frequently Asked Questions

Will the facility generate any noise or sounds?

Battery storage facilities such as this are quiet when operating. There are little to no moving parts, and the equipment is housed in a container that muffles sound.

Are there any radiation or fire-related safety risks associated with the technology?

Battery storage devices do not generate any air emissions or harmful radiation and involve little to no fire risk when properly designed, installed, tested and operated. The battery storage systems contain protection and control features, including a battery management system that shuts down when operational environments are anything less than optimal. The Nighthawk project will use Tesla Megapack battery technology, which has an industry-leading safety record.

In response to feedback received from the community, the project team has committed to install an underground transmission line from the Nighthawk project to the Sycamore Canyon Substation. No additional above ground electrical utility poles will be utilized in this project. The team will continue to work closely with both the Poway and San Diego fire departments to ensure the safety of the project and receive sign-off and approval before the facility may be considered operational.

Will the transmission line that runs to the Sycamore Canyon Substation be undergrounded?

Yes, while it is significantly more expensive, in response to feedback received from the community, the transmission line will be undergrounded.

Could the battery storage project be undergrounded, or could the containers be stacked to allow for additional use of the site?

Battery storage containers are designed to be above ground due to safety reasons. Battery storage projects have never been undergrounded before, and technology for stacking battery storage containers is still very new.

Are there currently any projects similar to this one in the region?

Yes, a battery storage project has been operating in Escondido since 2017, and a battery storage project in Otay Mesa began operating in 2020.

Will construction jobs go to members of the local community?

When we build a generating facility, we typically hire an engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contractor. The EPC contractor performs design, completes engineering and manages construction of the facility. The EPC contractor also awards construction materials contracts and subcontracts for certain portions of the work. During operations, we will periodically contract for goods and services related to operations and maintenance. We encourage the use of local contractors and vendors when possible.

What is the expected timeline to start construction and become operational?

Construction is expected to begin in 2023 and last for approximately 10 to 12 months to meet a 2024 operations date, subject to all applicable approvals.

Is any consideration being given to the facility’s design and the aesthetics of the site?

The project team will work with the community to ensure the facility fits in as seamlessly as possible.

Will there be on-site security?

Periodic on-site security checks will be conducted in addition to the remotely controlled security operation at the Tesla Network Operations Center located in California.

Safety

Informational Materials