Battery Energy Storage Systems

A fire detection system is a critical component in BESS installations. Detecting potential fires early can assist to prevent and mitigate the risk of fire. 

There are several types of fire detection systems that can be used in BESS:

• Smoke Detection Systems: Smoke detection systems are the most common fire detection systems used in ESS. They work by detecting smoke particles in the air and triggering an alarm. 

• Heat Detection Systems: Heat detection systems work by detecting a sudden rise in temperature in the ESS. 

• Infrared Detection Systems: Infrared detection systems use thermal imaging to detect heat sources that are not visible to the naked eye. They can detect hotspots in the batteries or electrical equipment, which can indicate a potential fire risk.

• Flame Detection Systems: Flame detection systems use sensors to detect the presence of flames. They are useful in an ESS that uses combustible materials, such as diesel generators or fuel cells.

• Video Detection Systems: Video detection systems use cameras to monitor the ESS and detect any signs of smoke or fire. They can be integrated with other fire detection systems to provide a comprehensive fire detection solution.

By using a combination of these fire detection systems, the risk of fire in ESS can be significantly reduced, ensuring safe and reliable operation.

A fire suppression system can extinguish a fire or prevent it from assisting in propagation. Each system listed below can be customized to meet the client's specific needs. 

• Water Mist Systems: The system uses small water droplets sizes to cool the fire and starve it of oxygen. The mist is fine enough that it doesn't damage equipment, but is still effective at suppressing the fire.

• Dry Chemical/Aerosol Systems: Dry chemical and aerosol systems use a fine powder that extinguishes fires by interrupting the chemical chain reaction of combustion. 

• Inert Gas Systems: Inert gas systems are designed to suppress fires by reducing the oxygen levels in the room where the ESS is located. 

• NOVEC 1230/FK 5-1-12 Systems: FK-5-1-12 extinguishes fires by rapidly removing heat from the flame source. 

• Sprinkler Systems: Sprinkler systems help control or extinguish fires, reducing the potential for damage and preventing the spread of fire to other parts of the building or facilities. 

It's important to consult with an ORR Protection ESS expert to determine the most effective and safe fire suppression solution for your specific ESS application.

A complete Hazard Mitigation Analysis (HMA) is developed for each site. ORR’s HMA is an extensive report giving the full analysis of the site’s specific characteristics and conditions. This helps us develop a seamless and comprehensive fire protection plan for each site and ensures anyone in the area, such as the operators, technicians, or maintenance staff know exactly how to respond to an incident at the site. 

The HMA also helps us understand details such as the amount of pressure that can build up from the off-gassing of a thermal runaway situation. We must understand the off-gas characteristics of the battery being used to calculate the accumulation potential of the off-gas within the container. This allows us to understand the off-gas detection, deflation, and venting strategy we should implement.

The HMA is also an essential part of the emergency response plan we design for each site. The plan includes important information for the local authorities having jurisdiction or the first responders coming into the sites. It’s crucial that the people working onsite understand they are in a high-risk environment with extremely high voltage and a lot of moving parts. We want our customers to know that our mission to protect people, property, and the environment includes their facilities, personnel, and community.

It is essential for a fire protection company to understand all the layers associated with deploying a fire protection system for a battery energy storage system so nothing is overlooked.

An Emergency Power Off (EPO) system can shut down the BESS in the event of an emergency, such as a fire. The added concern around BESS units is the batteries still offer stranded energy even when the EPO is activated. 

An Emergency Power Off (EPO) system provides several benefits, including:

• Ease of Use: An EPO system typically consists of a single switch or button, making it easy for anyone to quickly shut down the ESS in an emergency due to overcharging, overheating, or other faults that could lead to catastrophic failure.

• Safety: The primary benefit of an EPO system is that it provides a means of quickly shutting down the BESS in case of an emergency. 

• Compliance: An EPO system is often required by the local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). Other applicable codes and regulations for energy storage systems require an EPO system. The typical location of the EPO switch is outside of the BESS unit or even at the point of entry into the facility.

• Protection: An EPO switch should be protected from weather elements and located out of the reach of non-authorized personnel.

A fully integrated ventilation system helps prevent the buildup of hazardous gasses and minimizes the risk of fires.

An emergency response plan should be in place to ensure a swift and effective response to fires. This plan should include procedures for evacuating personnel, shutting down the BESS, and contacting the appropriate emergency services.

Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) can pose certain hazards, including the risk of off-gas release. Off-gassing occurs when gasses are released from the battery cells due to overheating or other malfunctions, which can result in the release of potentially hazardous amounts of gasses such as hydrogen, carbon monoxide, and methane. The off-gas detection system is an important safety consideration when installing BESS.

Key points to consider for BESS off-gas detection system installations:

• Types of off-gas or gasses present: Identify the types of gasses that can be released from the battery cells and determine the most appropriate detection methods for each gas. A list of the off-gasses is typically found in the UL9540A testing document.
• Location of off-gas sensors: The optimal locations for off-gas detection sensors should be based on the layout of the battery storage system, the type of off-gasses present, and the airflow within the off-gassing plume.
• Sensor calibration: Ensure that off-gas detection sensors are calibrated properly to detect the correct type and concentration of gas.
• Alarm system: An alarm notification system that provides both audible and visual alerts to notify personnel when gas concentrations exceed safe levels.
• Backup power: Ensures the gas sensors are properly powered by a reliable source and provided a two-hour minimum battery backup system.
• Response plan: Develop a response plan that outlines the steps to take in the event of off-gas detection, including evacuation procedures, emergency shut-off mechanisms, and notification protocols.
• Maintenance and testing: Develop a maintenance and testing plan per the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure that off-gas detection sensors are functioning properly and that the alarm system is operational. 

By implementing effective off-gas detection measures, BESS operators can minimize the risks associated with battery off-gassing and ensure the safety of personnel and the surrounding environment.