Container fire at Claudia battery storage site in Saucats, France

A fire broke out in a container of lithium-ion batteries at the Claudia battery energy storage facility in Saucats (Barban), Gironde, France, which was in the process of being commissioned. The site is operated and owned by Amarenco, with the battery system integrated by Nidec Industrial Solutions. The fire started around midday and was contained over roughly a day and night by local fire services, who used a water curtain to prevent the flames spreading rather than applying water directly to the burning battery unit, in line with guidance for lithium-ion fires. No injuries were reported and the fire did not spread to nearby forest. Thick black smoke was visible several hundred metres away, prompting concern among nearby residents and farmers about potential effects on crops and woodland. Amarenco stated an investigation into the cause was ongoing, with recent hot weather and the unit having only just been brought into service considered possible factors.

Possible factors under investigation included the unit having only recently been commissioned and preceding heatwave conditions; Amarenco had not confirmed a root cause at the time of reporting.

1. Battery containers with internal gas-based fire suppression can limit fire spread but may still generate substantial visible smoke, so operators should have a clear communication plan for nearby communities in the event of a fire.
2. Emergency responders and site operators should agree in advance on protocols for lithium-ion battery fires, including use of water curtains rather than direct water application, to avoid escalating the incident.
3. Newly commissioned battery units, particularly during periods of high ambient temperature, may warrant enhanced thermal monitoring as an added precaution.
4. Proactive, transparent engagement with local residents about smoke risk and safety measures can help address community concerns raised during and after such incidents.

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