This text is an abstract of the complete article originally published in Energy Storage News in February 2025.
Fire incidents in battery energy storage systems (BESS) are rare but receive significant public and regulatory attention due to their dramatic impact on communities, first responders, and the environment. Although these incidents are decreasing, each case provides insights to improve energy storage safety. A comprehensive risk management approach is essential for ensuring BESS safety and minimizing fire hazards.
The first question BESS project developers and owners should ask themselves when dealing with battery storage safety is whether introducing a lithium-ion storage technology is absolutely necessary. If this is the case, choosing safer chemistries such as lithium iron phosphate (LFP) can reduce fire risks compared to nickel manganese cobalt (NMC). However, even standard compliant systems cannot fully eliminate hazards.
To strengthen battery energy storage safety management, manufacturers now conduct large-scale fire testing (LSFT) to provide evidence when assessing the risks and support regulatory approvals. Adherence to international standards ensures that BESS projects integrate fire suppression, gas detection, and proper site management. These proactive measures significantly enhance BESS safety, reducing the likelihood and severity of fire incidents.
Engineering controls play a critical role in mitigating incidents. Systems such as fire suppression, battery management systems (BMS), and cooling mechanisms help maintain safe operating conditions. If a thermal runaway occurs, well-designed cells, fire detection, and ventilation systems prevent escalation. Site layout is another key factor, ensuring adequate spacing and protective barriers to contain potential fires.
Administrative controls are also important and refer to policies and procedures that manage fire risks after other safety measures have been implemented. These controls address residual risks and should be based on the system design and remaining hazards. It is best to develop these controls in consultation with local fire authorities and maintenance providers early in the project. Their input will help refine the controls and reduce risks to personnel, improving response actions.
Applus+, through Enertis, its solar and energy storage specialist, offers a wide range of energy storage consulting and engineering solutions, including BESS engineering and Energy Storage Quality Control services.
Contact our experts to learn more about BESS safety measures and risk mitigation.
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