What is required working space in and around the energy storage system?

The required working spaces in and around the energy storage system must also comply with 110.26. Working space is measured from the edge of the ESS modules, battery cabinets, racks, or trays.

How many volts can a dwelling unit energy storage system handle?

For dwelling units, an ESS cannot exceed 100 volts between conductors or to ground. An exception dictates that where live parts are not accessible during routine ESS maintenance, voltage exceeding 100 volts is permitted at the dwelling unit energy storage system. This information can be found at 706.30 (A).

How far apart should storage units be positioned?

Therefore, if you install multiple storage units, you have to space them three feet apart unless the manufacturer has already done large-scale fire testing and can prove closer spacing will not cause fire to propagate between adjacent units.

How much energy can a ESS unit store?

Individual ESS units shall have a maximum stored energy of 20 kWh per NFPA Section 15.7. NFPA 855 clearly tells us each unit can be up to 20 kWh, but how much overall storage can you put in your installation? That depends on where you put it and is defined in Section 15.7.1 of NFPA 855.

Can pre-engineered and self-contained energy storage systems have working space?

Language found in the last paragraph at 706.10 (C) advises that pre-engineered and self-contained energy storage systems are permitted to have working space between components within the system in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations and listing of the system.

What is the battery energy storage system guidebook?

NYSERDA published the Battery Energy Storage System Guidebook, most-recently updated in December 2020, which contains information and step-by-step instructions to support local governments in New York in managing the development of residential, commercial, and utility-scale BESS in their communities.