As the number of Li-ion Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) facilities being installed continues to rise rapidly, it’s crucial to address the hazards and risks associated with these facilities during the design, installation and operation phases. AEGIS published our initial white paper on this topic back in 2021. As more BESS facilities are constructed and remain operational for longer periods, we continue to learn from both losses and model practices across our membership. The first revision to the BESS white paper was released in 2023, expanding on the Deflagration Hazard Study (DHS), installation-level testing criteria and concerns associated with various facility configurations, such as parking garage-style layouts and enclosure stacking. Available now, this second revision contains additional and updated information, including:
- Details on how Probable Maximum Loss (PML) and Maximum Foreseeable Loss (MFL) are determined by AEGIS based on BESS separation and arrangements
- Information that should be provided on displays/control consoles for emergency responders
- Considerations for site security and flood risk management for BESS installations
- A reference to recently developed CSA TS-800:24 for Large Scale Fire Testing (LSFT) Criteria
- Updates to references reflecting the latest version of NFPA 855
- A reference to IEEE P2686 – Recommended Practice for Battery Management Systems in Energy Storage Applications
As installations and reliance on BESS facilities continue to grow, AEGIS Loss Control remains committed to staying current with industry developments and lessons learned from losses through active engagement with the broader industry, collaboration with our members and their chosen OEMs, and participation in National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) committees. Insights from these sources are shared among our subject matter experts through internal working groups, which help shape external communications for our members. You can find a copy of the updated BESS white paper here.
AEGIS Loss Control Can Help
AEGIS Loss Control is available to discuss, review and/or evaluate Li-ion BESS projects with member companies. We prefer to engage during the early stages of development and design, as this allows for potential changes to be considered and incorporated into the project. For assistance, please contact Mark Boone, National Property Manager, by email or phone at 201.508.2881 or Charles Bruce, Senior Property Loss Control Professional, by email or phone at 201.508.5768.
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The content of this Quick Tip is illustrative in nature and does not purport to describe all potential hazards or to indicate that no hazards exist. This paper is not a substitute for expert advice. Neither the author nor AEGIS Insurance Services, Inc. endorses or guarantees that any particular practice or procedure is safe in all cases or meets any code or regulatory requirement. This paper is provided without warranties of any kind.
