Property Loss Control for Lithium-Ion Energy Storage Systems (ESS)

The use of rechargeable Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) batteries continues to grow in electronic products, automobiles (EV) and energy storage systems (ESS). This is due to their high energy density and decreasing cost.

A battery ESS can use large numbers of Li-Ion batteries assembled together which are capable of storing energy in order to supply electrical energy at a future time. Today, ESS are the primary infrastructure for wind turbine farms, solar farms, and peak shaving facilities. They can also be found in commercial, industrial, and residential (i.e., apartment) buildings. Such installations can be located in dedicated outside buildings, enclosures (i.e., shipping container), interior & exterior cut-off rooms, rooftops, and open parking garages.

The hazards associated with ESS using Li-Ion batteries include fire and explosion, chemical, electrical, stored energy and physical. There have been many ESS fires/explosions worldwide during the past 5 years. One of the most notable was in Surprise, AZ¹ in 2019. A fire occurred inside an ESS enclosure and when the door of the enclosure was opened, an explosion occurred.

The primary causes of Li-Ion battery fires include short-circuiting, overcharging and electrolyte breakdown. Short-circuiting and overcharging can lead to a thermal runaway condition in which the cell’s heat generation is at a higher rate than can dissipate, potentially leading to off-gassing, fire or explosion. The early detection of a thermal runaway condition is critical.

Major codes/standards which address Li-Ion battery ESS include FM Global, National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Underwriters Laboratory (UL) and International Fire Code (IFC).

The following is a brief summary of the significant construction, occupancy, protection and exposure (COPE) requirements for Li-Ion battery ESS systems. The referenced documents provide complete information.

The superior operating performance of Li-Ion battery ESS will continue to result in further deployment of these types of systems worldwide. The hazards of these systems are fairly well understood, and the various codes/standards provide risk mitigation recommendations (i.e., COPE). Refinement of these codes/standards continues as more is learned, particularly in the area of the explosion hazard. Contact Risk Logic for a review of your ESS or planned installation to help provide adequate protection of your facility.

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