House of Commons Addresses Safety Regulations for Battery Energy Storage Sites on June 5, 2025

Battery Energy Storage Sites: Safety Regulations
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**5 June 2025** – House of Commons Debate

This debate addresses the safety regulations surrounding battery energy storage systems (BESS), particularly concerning the risks associated with lithium-ion fires.

**John Milne**, a Liberal Democrat MP from Horsham, opened the discussion by moving a motion recognizing the unique challenges posed by lithium-ion fires at battery energy storage sites. He urged the Government to establish enforceable national regulations for the design and construction of these facilities. Milne emphasized the need for consistent legislation applicable across the UK, aiming to secure the future of renewable energy while ensuring safety.

The UK aims for net-zero emissions by 2050, necessitating the expansion of renewable energy sources like wind and solar farms, along with the deployment of BESS. These systems address the intermittency of renewable energy, providing functions such as load balancing and peak shaving. However, Milne highlighted that while BESSs offer significant benefits, they also come with risks, particularly due to the prevalent use of lithium-ion battery technology.

In the event of an accident, lithium-ion batteries can undergo a dangerous phenomenon known as thermal runaway, resulting in intense fires that require specialized firefighting techniques. Although many BESSs use lithium iron phosphate batteries, which are more stable than other chemistries, incidents can still occur. Firefighters face challenges such as toxic gas emissions and potential explosions, necessitating improved safety measures.

**David Mundell**, a Conservative MP, raised concerns about the placement of BESS facilities in rural areas, often served by retained firefighters who may be far from specialized resources. Milne acknowledged this and advocated for mandatory training for fire officers, alongside the implementation of water-based suppression systems and off-gas detection systems.

Currently, the planning approvals for BESSs lack clarity and consistency, with local authority officers often untrained in lithium-ion technology. Despite the guidelines encouraging consultation with fire services, such engagement is not mandatory, leading to significant gaps in safety oversight.

Milne referenced past incidents, including a fire in Liverpool in 2020 that burned for 59 hours, highlighting the serious consequences of inadequate regulations. He called for action to prevent a repeat of past disasters like Grenfell, where regulatory failures resulted in tragic outcomes.

**Jim Shannon**, an MP from the Democratic Unionist Party, echoed Milne’s sentiments, expressing the urgency for national legislation on safety standards for BESSs. He pointed to multiple incidents involving BESS fires and emphasized the need for a cohesive regulatory framework across the UK.

Milne concluded by urging the Minister to commit to regulatory reforms that would not only enhance safety but also promote public trust in battery energy storage systems. He argued that the time for action is now, as the number of BESS applications continues to grow exponentially.

In response, **Miatta Fahnbulleh**, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State, acknowledged the concerns raised during the debate. She emphasized the Government’s commitment to ensuring that safety measures are robust and that they are actively working on enhancing regulations to address the unique challenges posed by battery energy storage systems.

This debate highlighted the critical intersection of safety, innovation, and the need for clear regulations to support the growth of renewable energy infrastructure in the UK.