Energy storage fire fighting rendering explosion diagram

Does a lithium-ion energy storage unit need explosion control?

To address the safety issues associated with lithium-ion energy storage, NFPA 855 and several other fire codes require any BESS the size of a small ISO container or larger to be provided with some form of explosion control. This includes walk-in units, cabinet style BESS and buildings.

Are lithium-ion battery energy storage systems a fire hazard?

While lithium-ion battery energy storage systems are a relatively new technology and phenomenon, there have been several notable events where significant fires and explosions have occurred in which thermal runaway was instrumental in the magnitude of the loss.

What is an energy storage roadmap?

This roadmap provides necessary information to support owners, opera-tors, and developers of energy storage in proactively designing, building, operating, and maintaining these systems to minimize fire risk and ensure the safety of the public, operators, and environment.

Can CFD be used to design an explosion prevention system?

CFD methodology can be extended to design an explosion prevention system for any ESS enclosure. Results can also provide the controlled release rate of flammable and toxic materials which is useful information for first responders and to assess environmental impacts.

Where can I find information on energy storage failures?

For up-to-date public data on energy storage failures, see the EPRI BESS Failure Event Database.2 The Energy Storage Integration Coun-cil (ESIC) Energy Storage Reference Fire Hazard Mitigation Analysis (ESIC Reference HMA),3 illustrates the complexity of achieving safe storage systems.

How many MWh of battery energy were involved in the fires?

In total, more than 180 MWh were involved in the fires. For context, Wood Mackenzie, which conducts power and renewable energy research, estimates 17.9 GWh of cumulative battery energy storage capacity was operating globally in that same period, implying that nearly 1 out of every 100 MWh had failed in this way.1