San Gabriel Valley Residents Protest Battery Storage Hub in City of Industry

Residents in the San Gabriel Valley are protesting a 400-megawatt battery storage facility approved by City of Industry officials in January. The facility, operated by Aypa Power and backed by Blackstone, raises concerns about environmental pollution and health risks associated with lithium batteries.

Local activists argue that the facility could pave the way for further industrial projects, including potential data centers, which may increase utility costs and pollution. Organizers have criticized the City of Industry for its lack of transparency and engagement with surrounding communities, which face adverse impacts without receiving economic benefits from industrial developments. This situation underscores the need for better regulatory oversight in areas with heavy industrial zoning.