Ensuring battery energy storage systems are safe for our homes
As homeowners continue to seek out cleaner energy, domestic energy storage systems have become an increasingly attractive proposition. Not only do they offer a sustainable alternative, but we’re beginning to see signs of financial benefits as well. These systems can now harness intelligent software that coordinates energy production and helps users decide when to store excess energy or release it to the grid. However, with the increasing adoption of these systems, it is crucial to prioritise safety to ensure the well-being of homeowners. There are various safety considerations, common concerns and technologies associated with domestic battery energy storage systems that are worth considering.
Understanding Battery Energy Storage Systems
Battery energy storage systems function by storing energy and making it available during power outages, peak demand times, or when renewable energy sources aren’t producing enough power. Primarily, these systems consist of several components:
- Batteries: Where the energy is stored, often lithium-ion.
- Power Conversion System: This component converts alternating current power to direct current for storage and vice versa when the stored energy is required.
- Balance of System: Includes various equipment such as disconnects, overcurrent protection, and metering devices.
Energy Management System: The “brain” of the system that monitors and controls its operation.
Safety plays an integral role in these systems. It not only prevents potential accidents but also prolongs the lifespan and performance of the system. Inadequate safety measures can lead to inefficiency, risk of fire, damage to equipment and even health hazards. As such, manufacturers such as ourselves must ensure these systems and the components within them are designed with safety at the forefront. At Elmelin, we specialise in outstanding insulation solutions for battery technology that are developed using decades of expertise and in collaboration with industry experts. Our insulation helps to maintain excellent performance and efficiency while ensuring safe operation and a long useful life.
Industry Standards & Regulations
Before discussing the safety mechanisms within the systems themselves, it’s important to consider the standards and regulations that exist to prevent any hazards. Notable standards worldwide include the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) 62619, specifying the safety requirements for secondary lithium cells and batteries, and NFPA 855, delineating the fire code for energy storage systems.
These regulations ensure safe design, installation, and operation of energy storage devices. Non-compliance might lead to catastrophic events such as fire outbreaks or electric shocks, emphasising the significance of abiding by these standards. Hence, manufacturers should be striving to meet these safety benchmarks while producing insulation materials for battery energy storage systems.
Battery Energy Storage System Safety Features
To enhance the safety of domestic battery energy storage systems, there are various features and technologies that exist to both prevent and mitigate risk. Insulation is a major safety feature and one that we specialise in. It essentially plays a dual role, by not only protecting against electrical faults and potential fires, but also enhancing system efficiency. By mitigating heat transfer, effective insulation maintains ideal operating temperatures within the battery system, thereby preventing overheating and improving overall performance. Our mica-based insulation solutions are designed to fit with new standards for modern homes, as well as enable clean energy to power and sustain the next generation of homes.
The inclusion of thermal management systems is another safety feature which helps regulate the temperature of the battery. These systems employ cooling mechanisms to prevent overheating and minimise the risk of thermal runaway. Additionally, advanced energy management system technology continuously monitors and manages the battery’s performance, ensuring safe charging and discharging rates. Smart controls fall under a similar bracket, allowing homeowners to monitor and control their battery energy storage system. They provide real-time alerts in case of any issues, helping to spot potential issues early before they get worse.
When lithium-ion batteries are combined with flammable electrolytes, thermal runaway can cause intense fires that are hard to put out. The ignited battery supplies its own oxygen, making it near impossible to smother the flames because of the fuel, oxygen, and ignition source all coming from within. Therefore another essential safety feature is a fire suppression system. These systems can detect potential fire hazards and even automatically activate fire suppression measures. By quickly extinguishing fires, these systems help prevent the spread of flames and minimise damage to the battery energy storage system and the surrounding area.
Conclusion
As domestic battery energy storage systems become increasingly common in modern homes, it is imperative to prioritise safety to protect homeowners and their properties. By understanding the safety considerations, addressing common concerns, complying with regulations and standards, and implementing safety features and technologies, the risks associated with battery energy storage systems can be mitigated effectively. Find out more about our bespoke insulation solutions for battery energy storage systems by getting in touch here. We take pride in offering outstanding solutions catered to individual needs.