Hazards of lithium‐ion battery energy storage systems (BESS), mitigation strategies, minimum requirements, and best practices

Abstract

In the last few years, the energy industry has seen an exponential increase in the quantity of lithium‐ion (LI) utility‐scale battery energy storage systems (BESS). Standards, codes, and test methods have been developed that address battery safety and are constantly improving as the industry gains more knowledge about BESS. These standards address the minimum requirements for shipping, installation, commissioning, and operation of the battery. In addition to minimum standards, there are recommended practices that enhance the safety of utility‐scale energy storage installations. This paper reviews the recommended practices that, through knowledge and experience with BESS, are being adopted by electric utilities. The focus is on fire, explosion, and toxic emission hazards of thermal runaway events of the battery and their mitigation. The paper also addresses utility considerations of minimum requirements dictated by codes, standards, and expectations of authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs) and insurance companies. This paper is intended to increase the technical acumen of environmental health and safety personnel and to provide practical information to utilities and developers installing LI BESS.