1. Battery energy storage systems (BESS) are perceived as fire and explosion hazards by some local communities in the US and UK.
2. Trina Solar, a leading solar PV manufacturer, has launched Trina Storage, a BESS subsidiary that focuses on manufacturing quality and product design to minimize safety risks.
3. Trina’s latest BESS solution, Elementa 2, features multiple safety features such as detection systems, embedded protection layers, fire extinguisher system, and compliance with NFPA standards to ensure safety during daily operations and worst-case scenarios.
Battery energy storage systems (BESS) are facing opposition from local communities in the US and UK due to concerns about fire and explosion hazards. New York State has particularly imposed moratoria on new developments following fire incidents at battery storage systems. In the UK, a solar-plus-storage project had its fire safety management plan rejected. While other reasons for opposition to BESS projects exist, safety remains a primary concern due to the common use of lithium battery technologies.
Companies in the industry are taking steps to mitigate fire and explosion risks through manufacturing and product design. Trina Solar, for example, has launched Trina Storage, a subsidiary that produces complete energy storage systems and components equipped with multiple safety features. These features include various detection systems, embedded protection layers, and a water-based extinguishing system as a contingency measure for worst-case scenarios.
Trina also focuses on controlling every step of the manufacturing process to ensure quality and safety. Their thermal management system, with liquid cooling for BESS, helps maintain internal temperature within a 2.5°C delta. The design is based on repeated simulations to ensure the coolant can effectively impact temperature throughout the pack. Planning for safety, including worst-case scenarios, is essential for the operation and maintenance of BESS systems to prevent fires and explosions.