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.

Two sets of 24V lithium batteries to form a 48V

Yes, converting 24V to 48V is achievable through series wiring of two 24V batteries, DC-DC boost converters, or motor/controller rewiring. However, success depends on component compatibility—battery BMS, inverter limits, and wire gauges must handle doubled voltage. [pdf]

New Zealand invests in energy storage battery company

Eku Energy has acquired a 300 MW battery energy storage project in New Zealand’s Waikato region, marking its entry into the country. The project will be co-developed with Auckland-headquartered solar company Helios Energy and will connect to Transpower’s Whakamaru substation. [pdf]

FAQS about New Zealand invests in energy storage battery company

Is EKU energy launching a battery energy storage system in New Zealand?

Image: Eku Energy. Energy storage developer Eku Energy has entered the New Zealand battery energy storage system (BESS) market. The developer confirmed yesterday (24 June) that it had purchased an undisclosed-sized BESS to be developed in Waikato, on the country’s North Island. The region is home to the country’s largest river and lake.

Where is New Zealand's first large-scale battery storage system located?

Meridian Energy has officially opened New Zealand's first large-scale grid battery storage system at Ruakākā, the first of its kind, and a milestone in the country's renewable energy infrastructure development. The Ruakākā Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) delivers 100 megawatts (MW) of maximum output with 200 MW-hour storage capacity.

Who is launching New Zealand's largest battery energy storage system?

WEL Networks and Infratec are proud to announce the launch of New Zealand’s largest Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) with commissioning underway.

How much does a battery cost in New Zealand?

The mean charging spot price was $123/MWh and the median was $132/MWh. As New Zealand electrifies, more grid-scale batteries will support the growing renewable energy supply. Meridian Energy is building a 100MW (200MWh) battery near Ruakākā in sunny Northland. This battery is expected to be commissioned in September 2024.

Does Saft offer a battery energy storage system for New Zealand?

Saft executive vice president for energy storage solutions Hervé Amossé add: “Saft is proud to provide this first Battery Energy Storage System for New Zealand in the Waikato. We are excited to start this operation phase of the battery for which we will continue to support our partners.

Why should New Zealand invest in grid-scale batteries?

Additionally, these batteries, alongside more renewable generation, will help off-set the retirement of thermal generation and support New Zealand’s transition to a low-emissions economy. The first grid-scale battery was commissioned in 2023 by Hamilton lines company WEL Networks.