Factory energy storage cabinet fire protection system diagram

Can a lithium-ion battery energy storage system detect a fire?

Since December 2019, Siemens has been offering a VdS-certified fire detection concept for stationary lithium-ion battery energy storage systems.* Through Siemens research with multiple lithium-ion battery manufacturers, the FDA unit has proven to detect a pending battery fire event up to 5 times faster than competitive detection technologies.

What is battery energy storage fire prevention & mitigation?

In 2019, EPRI began the Battery Energy Storage Fire Prevention and Mitigation – Phase I research project, convened a group of experts, and conducted a series of energy storage site surveys and industry workshops to identify critical research and development (R&D) needs regarding battery safety.

Do energy storage systems need active fire protection?

To date there is no publicly available test data that confirms the effectiveness of any active fire protection for energy storage systems. Automatic sprinkler protection is recommended to limit fire spread to the surrounding structure, equipment, and building contents.

Are energy storage systems flammable?

These systems combine high energy materials with highly flammable electrolytes. Consequently, one of the main threats for this type of energy storage facility is fire, which can have a significant impact on the viability of the installation.

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.

Is thermal runaway a fire hazard for energy storage systems?

Thermal runaway leads to high temperatures and gas buildup, with the potential for an explosive rupture of the battery cell that can lead to fire and/or explosion. To date there is no publicly available test data that confirms the effectiveness of any active fire protection for energy storage systems.