What are the ESS safety requirements for energy storage systems?

The International Fire Code (IFC) published its most robust ESS safety requirements in the most recent 2021 edition. By far the most dominant battery type installed in an energy storage system is lithium-ion, which brings with it particular fire risks.

What is battery energy storage fire prevention & mitigation?

In 2019, EPRI began the Battery Energy Storage Fire Prevention and Mitigation – Phase I research project, convened a group of experts, and conducted a series of energy storage site surveys and industry workshops to identify critical research and development (R&D) needs regarding battery safety.

Are energy storage systems flammable?

These systems combine high energy materials with highly flammable electrolytes. Consequently, one of the main threats for this type of energy storage facility is fire, which can have a significant impact on the viability of the installation.

How many large-scale battery energy storage sites have been affected by fires?

4. Planning for Failure Requires Choices: Varying Levels of Over the past four years, at least 30 large-scale battery energy storage sites (BESS) globally experienced failures that resulted in destructive fires.1 In total, more than 200 MWh were involved in the fires.

What are battery storage fire safety initiatives?

These initiatives have included creating a battery storage fire safety roadmap, developing recommendations and leading practices for designing systems, and training and working with first responders responsible for putting out fires.

What happens if a power generation & energy storage facility fires?

Power generation and energy storage fires can be very costly, potentially resulting in a total write-off of the facility. Fires happen quickly and may spread fast, destroying critical company assets. Passive fire protection may lower risk but ignition sources and fuel supplies remain.