Energy storage systems, particularly those using lithium-ion batteries, present several key safety concerns that industry standards and technological advancements aim to mitigate:
1. Thermal Runaway and Fire Hazards
Lithium-ion batteries can experience thermal runaway—a self-sustaining chain reaction leading to overheating, fires, or explosions. This risk increases with factors like overcharging, internal defects, or external short circuits. While large-scale incidents like the 2019 McMicken, Arizona explosion (which injured firefighters) are rare, they underscore the need for explosion prevention and fire containment strategies.
2. Explosion Risks During Firefighting
Traditional fire suppression systems (e.g., clean-agent or aerosol systems) may inadvertently increase explosion risks by disrupting gas concentrations or failing to halt thermal runaway. Current best practices prioritize controlled containment to manage burns safely, prevent reignition, and avoid toxic runoff.
3. Stranded Energy and Reignition
Even after initial suppression, stranded energy in damaged cells can reignite fires. NFPA standards now emphasize isolating affected units and allowing controlled burns rather than aggressive suppression.
4. Toxic Emissions and Environmental Contamination
Battery fires release toxic gases (e.g., hydrogen fluoride) and generate contaminated water from firefighting efforts, posing health and environmental risks. Containment designs aim to localize these hazards.
Mitigation Strategies
- NFPA 855 Compliance: Projects adhere to strict codes for spacing, ventilation, and firewalls. Proposed 2026 updates may ban untested suppression systems.
- Advanced Monitoring: Sensors track temperature, voltage, and gas buildup to detect early warnings.
- Firefighter Collaboration: Industry partnerships train responders on safe containment protocols.
- Certified Equipment: Batteries undergo rigorous testing (e.g., UL 9540) to ensure failure containment.
While incidents remain uncommon, ongoing updates to standards and technology aim to further reduce risks.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/what-are-the-main-safety-concerns-related-to-energy-storage-systems/
