ENERGY STORAGE SAFETY IN FINLAND INNOVATION MEETS ARCTIC
New Energy Storage Power Supply Safety Standards
In this article, we briefly discuss each of the 20 proposals adopted in the third edition of UL 9540. UL 9540 is a safety standard for the construction, manufacturing, performance testing and marking of grid-tied ESS. This includes electrochemical, chemical, mechanical, and thermal storage systems. [pdf]FAQS about New Energy Storage Power Supply Safety Standards
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.
What is an energy storage system (ESS)?
Covers an energy storage system (ESS) that is intended to receive and store energy in some form so that the ESS can provide electrical energy to loads or to the local/area electric power system (EPS) when needed. Electrochemical, chemical, mechanical, and thermal ESS are covered by this Standard.
What does ul 9540 mean for energy storage systems & equipment?
The third edition of the UL 9540 Standard for Safety for Energy Storage Systems and Equipment, published in April 2023, introduces replacements, revisions and additions to the requirements for system deployment.
Are energy storage facilities safe?
“The energy storage industry is committed to a proactive and tireless approach to safety and reliability. At its core, energy storage facilities are critical infrastructure designed to protect people from power outages,” said ACP VP of Energy Storage Noah Roberts.
Do I need a sprinkler system for a battery ESS?
A: Testing has shown that water is the most efective agent for cooling for a battery ESS. For this reason, a sprinkler system designed in accordance with NFPA 13, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems, is required by NFPA 855, Standard for the Installation of Energy Storage Systems.
Why do we need energy storage systems?
Growing concerns about the use of fossil fuels and greater demand for a cleaner, more eficient, and more resilient energy grid has led to the use of energy storage systems (ESS), and that use has increased substantially over the past decade.
Additional safety measures for energy storage systems
UL 9540 defines the safety requirements for energy storage systems and equipment. NFPA 855 outlines installation rules that minimize fire risk. Together, they form the foundation of residential storage safety. As capacity grows beyond 10kWh, following these standards becomes even more essential. [pdf]FAQS about Additional safety measures for energy storage systems
Are new energy storage systems safe?
Interest in storage safety considerations is substantially increasing, yet newer system designs can be quite different than prior versions in terms of risk mitigation. An uncontrolled release of energy is an inevitable and dangerous possibility with storing energy in any form.
What are some general safety tips for stored energy?
No matter what type of stored energy you are dealing with, there are some general safety tips that apply across the board. 1. Training and Education: Ensure that everyone who handles stored energy sources is properly trained and educated on the potential risks and safety precautions.
Do you take the right safety precautions for stored energy?
Taking the right safety precautions for stored energy is essential to prevent accidents and ensure a safe environment. Whether you are dealing with electrical, chemical, mechanical, or thermal energy, following these guidelines will help you handle these powerful resources safely and effectively.
Are energy storage systems dangerous?
In general, energy that is stored has the potential for release in an uncontrolled manner, potentially endangering equipment, the environment, or people. All energy storage systems have hazards. Some hazards are easily mitigated to reduce risk, and others require more dedicated planning and execution to maintain safety.
What are the primary and secondary hazards of energy storage?
Resulting primary hazards may include fire, chemical, crush, electrical, and thermal. Secondary hazards may include health and environmental. EPRI's energy storage safety research is focused in three areas, or future states, defined in the Energy Storage Roadmap: Vision for 2025.
How do you deal with stored energy accidents?
Develop and regularly review emergency procedures for dealing with accidents involving stored energy. Conduct drills to ensure everyone knows what to do in case of an emergency. Taking the right safety precautions for stored energy is essential to prevent accidents and ensure a safe environment.
