Officials in Summerside, P.E.I., are sharing an update on the Sunbank solar farm fire that began burning more than a week ago. The battery fire began the morning of Sept. 7 and was quickly contained, though it triggered a voluntary shelter-in-place notice and school closures. The situation at the site reportedly remains active, but stable, 10 days later. Last Thursday, Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Heather Morrison said any gases from the batteries are not a health threat to residents. Air quality monitoring continues to show “no evidence of a health risk” from the fire. Morrison’s office has recommended air quality monitoring continue and additional air quality testing be done around the established monitoring perimeter “out of an abundance of caution.” Summerside’s drinking water has also been tested, with officials saying it is safe to drink. “Based on the results to date, residents of Summerside should feel confident in the quality of both the air and drinking water and can continue their normal day-to-day activities,” Morrison said in a provincial update. “We will continue to support the City and environmental experts as longer-term monitoring plans for air, soil and water are developed and implemented.” The Summerside Fire Department continues to monitor the scene, as battery fires can take a long time to fully extinguish. The province says people who are sensitive to smoke or who have respiratory conditions may choose to limit outdoor activity if the fire restarts. For more P.E.I. news, visit our dedicated provincial page.
