The residents of Mecca and the East Coachella Valley are demanding transparency and swift action regarding the cleanup of the Desert View Power Plant, which recently shut down after years of environmental issues. Although the plant—which burned biomass—has been inactive since April 2024 and was required to cease all operations by September 30th, residents fear the site still poses significant risks to public health.
Environmental advocates point out that the plant was known to be extremely dirty, with one expert claiming biomass energy is "dirtier than coal" at the smokestack. The concerns are validated by a 2022 EPA Notice of Violation issued to Desert View Power for exceeding limits on mercury and other pollutants discharged into the air.
Residents are currently fighting for a full pollution assessment and cleanup of the site, arguing that their community already suffers from toxins originating from the Salton Sea and farm pesticides. The issue is framed as one of environmental justice; local advocates firmly believe that if the polluting plant had been located in a wealthier community, like La Quinta or Indian Wells, it would never have been allowed to operate for so long.
Although the Cabazon Band of Mission Indians assumed ownership in 2023 and states a cleanup is underway, residents remain unconvinced, citing a continued lack of transparency from all parties involved, including the EPA and local officials.
By: NBC Palm Springs
December 4, 2025
