The California Energy Commission (CEC) has scheduled a public meeting to discuss the proposed Soda Mountain Solar Project in San Bernardino County. The meeting will take place on August 29 from 1 to 5 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Express in Barstow, with remote participation available via Zoom.
The session aims to provide information about the project and explain the CEC’s Opt-In Certification process. It also offers an opportunity for members of the public to learn how they can participate in the proceeding and share their comments.
Soda Mountain Solar, LLC submitted its application for the project on August 1, 2024, under the CEC’s Opt-In Certification program. The proposal involves building a solar photovoltaic array capable of generating up to 300 megawatts (MW) of renewable electricity and integrating a battery energy storage system (BESS) with up to 300 MW capacity, storing up to 1,200 megawatt-hours (MWh) of energy. The project would occupy about 2,670 acres managed by the Bureau of Land Management within the Barstow Field Office jurisdiction and include infrastructure such as maintenance buildings, stormwater controls, a substation and switchyard for connection to existing transmission lines, and battery storage facilities across an 18-acre pad.
After initial review found the application incomplete on September 3, 2024, updated materials were submitted between October 25, 2024, and July 21, 2025. The CEC deemed it complete on July 31, 2025. This triggered a formal certification process that is required by law to be completed within a set timeframe.
Following this public information and environmental scoping meeting, CEC staff will prepare an assessment including an environmental impact report. A subsequent public meeting will allow further comment before a final decision is made regarding approval of the project.
During the upcoming meeting: “CEC staff will explain their role and responsibility in reviewing the application and engaging with government agencies, California Native American tribes, neighboring communities, interested members of the public, and others.” Additionally: “The project applicant will also discuss the plans for the project and related facilities.” The CEC’s Office of Public Advisor will outline ways for community members to participate.
More details about how to attend or comment are available through official channels including dedicated web pages for both general program information (Opt-In Certification Program webpage) and specific updates about this project (Soda Mountain Solar Project application webpage).
The Opt-In Certification program was established as part of Governor Gavin Newsom’s agenda focused on accelerating clean energy development in California. This alternative permitting pathway is intended to speed up projects like Soda Mountain Solar while maintaining oversight under state environmental laws.
If approved by CEC following environmental review and public input: “the issuance of a certificate…replaces the need for any permits…required by state, local regional or federal agencies,” except where restricted by federal law. Certified projects are monitored throughout construction and operation according to established conditions.
Battery storage safety remains central as technology evolves statewide. Recent efforts include updates to fire codes—such as new standards expected this year—and requirements from other agencies like the California Public Utilities Commission mandating additional safety protocols adopted earlier this year. These steps are based on ongoing studies aimed at ensuring safe deployment across California.
For BESS certification: “Compliance with top-tier safety measures such as California Fire Code…and National Fire Protection Association standards (NFPA855)” is required; additional provisions include real-time monitoring systems for early hazard detection along with collaboration with local emergency responders.
The California Energy Commission serves as California’s main agency overseeing energy policy planning—including responsibilities ranging from certifying power plants to supporting innovation in renewables—ensuring continued progress toward statewide clean energy goals.
