Residents in the area surrounding the Sunbank solar farm in Summerside can finally resume normal routines after city officials lifted a voluntary shelter-in-place order late Wednesday afternoon. According to city officials, the situation at the 30-hectare site on the city’s west end has officially shifted from an active fire response to enhanced monitoring following a battery fire that began early Monday morning.
Thermal Imaging Deployed for Hot Spots
City staff and emergency services are utilizing thermal imaging at the site to monitor temperatures and identify potential hot spots tied to the battery bank fire, which started at approximately 5:30 a.m. Monday. While the active fire response has concluded, city statements note that “there remains a possibility of a flare-up or re-ignition over the coming days.” Officials have committed to providing public updates should site conditions change.
Did You Know? The Sunbank solar farm features an array of thousands of solar panels situated across a 30-hectare property in Summerside’s west end.
Air and Water Quality Monitoring Results
A joint statement released Wednesday afternoon by the City of Summerside and the province’s Chief Public Health Office confirmed that drinking water samples tested since Monday show “no abnormalities have been identified.” Air quality testing has also been ongoing throughout the event. According to the city’s statement, “At this time, there is no concerns over possible health impacts.”
The Chief Public Health Office acknowledged that residents may harbor health concerns and stated it is actively collaborating with municipal and provincial partners to monitor air and water quality. Dr. Heather Morrison, the province’s Chief Public Health Officer, has consulted an Atlantic Canadian toxicology expert regarding the situation. Additionally, the Office of the CPHO contacted Prince County Hospital and Health P.E.I. to ensure medical facilities remain aware of and monitor for any acute symptoms linked to the fire.
School Closures and Community Disruptions
P.E.I.’s Public Schools Branch cancelled all classes in the Three Oaks family of schools on both Tuesday and Wednesday due to potential conditions stemming from the fire. École-sur-Mer, the city’s French-language school, also closed its doors, alongside multiple local businesses and the nearby Credit Union Place.
City officials had weighed issuing a mandatory shelter-in-place order Tuesday night as forecasted southerly winds raised concerns about smoke blowing directly into the city. However, following an early morning meeting at 5:30 a.m. Wednesday, Summerside chief administrative officer JP Desrosiers confirmed that improving site conditions meant a mandatory order would ultimately not be required.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the solar farm fire start?
City officials believe the fire began around 5:30 a.m. Monday in a battery bank at the Sunbank solar farm.
Why were local schools closed?
P.E.I.’s Public Schools Branch cancelled classes in the Three Oaks family of schools on Tuesday and Wednesday, and École-sur-Mer closed, due to potential conditions from the fire.
Are drinking water and air quality safe?
Yes, according to a joint statement from the City of Summerside and the Chief Public Health Office, drinking water tests showed no abnormalities since Monday, and air quality testing indicated no concerns over possible health impacts.
How will local authorities handle energy storage safety monitoring in the future following this prolonged battery incident?