How to use industrial energy storage batteries for fire protection

Can a battery energy storage system control electrical fires?

However, these systems may be used in the computer or control rooms of an ESS to control any electrical fires. Thermal runaway in lithium batteries results in an uncontrollable rise in temperature and propagation of extreme fire hazards within a battery energy storage system (BESS).

Do lithium-ion battery storage spaces need fire protection?

Fire protection for lithium-ion battery storage spaces must account for the unique hazards posed by thermal runaway. Standard fire suppression systems may not be enough to manage the risks of lithium-ion battery fires. Facilities need systems specifically designed to detect, suppress, and prevent reignition of these types of fires.

Are battery energy storage systems safe?

WASHINGTON, D.C., March 28, 2025 — Today, the American Clean Power Association (ACP) released a comprehensive framework to ensure the safety of battery energy storage systems (BESS) in every community across the United States, informed by a new assessment of previous fire incidents at BESS facilities.

Why do you need a fire suppression system for lithium-ion battery storage?

Investing in a specialized fire suppression system for lithium-ion battery storage not only protects your facility but also offers significant operational benefits: Minimized downtime: Rapid detection and suppression can prevent fires from spreading, reducing repair and recovery time.

What is a battery energy storage system?

Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) have emerged as crucial components in our transition towards sustainable energy. As we increasingly promote the use of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind, the need for efficient energy storage becomes key.

How do you protect a battery module from a fire?

The most practical protection option is usually an external, fixed firefighting system. A fixed firefighting system does not stop an already occurring thermal runaway sequence within a battery module, but it can prevent fire spread from module to module, or from pack to pack, or to adjacent combustibles within the space.