Grid Scale

Report stresses ‘urgent’ need for new storage safety standards

Report stresses ‘urgent’ need for new storage safety standards
A portion of the Eleven Mile Solar Center under construction. (Courtesy: Ørsted)

A research-backed report compiled by Sigenergy and THEnergy aims to shed light on the current state of BESS safety and offer actionable insights to mitigate risks.

“Energy Storage Battery Safety in Residential Applications” examines measures meant to improve battery safety and regain trust among potential storage customers.

The battery energy storage system (BESS) market is experiencing rapid growth, notably within the residential sector, and Germany has emerged as a leader amidst this transition. However, apprehensions regarding battery safety are hindering wider acceptance and continued growth in the BESS market.

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Recent incidents of battery-related fires and explosions in Germany have underscored the need for enhanced safety standards in BESS installations, the companies argue. Despite what the report calls a “relatively low real fire risk,” safety concerns are deterring a quicker adoption of energy storage solutions in many countries.

The report identifies a discrepancy between cost optimization and battery safety among the majority of manufacturers. While norms and certifications set market standards, they often fall short of addressing the top safety concerns of residential customers, the report said. The companies stressed the importance of incorporating additional safety features beyond regulatory requirements to address these concerns effectively.

The report provides a comparison of energy storage solutions based on their safety features. It also highlights that many customers are willing to pay for enhanced safety measures that exceed market standards. Furthermore, the report advocates for the evolution of norms, standards, and certifications to keep pace with technological advancements and emerging safety concerns.

“Sigenergy, a new dynamic company for ESS set to redefine battery safety, is spearheading efforts to enhance safety standards and gain consumer confidence”, said Dr. Thomas Hillig, co-author of the report and director of the consultancy THEnergy.

The full report is available here.

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