Safety of home energy storage products

Are new energy storage systems safe?

Interest in storage safety considerations is substantially increasing, yet newer system designs can be quite different than prior versions in terms of risk mitigation. An uncontrolled release of energy is an inevitable and dangerous possibility with storing energy in any form.

Are energy storage systems dangerous?

In general, energy that is stored has the potential for release in an uncontrolled manner, potentially endangering equipment, the environment, or people. All energy storage systems have hazards. Some hazards are easily mitigated to reduce risk, and others require more dedicated planning and execution to maintain safety.

Is battery-based energy storage safe?

Given the projected rapid rollout of battery-based energy storage systems, with global deployments expected to reach a cumulative 411 GW/1194 GWh by the end of 2030 (a 15-fold increase from the end of 2021), safety is a major concern and has been the focus of recent news stories.

Do energy storage systems need a CSR?

Until existing model codes and standards are updated or new ones developed and then adopted, one seeking to deploy energy storage technologies or needing to verify an installation’s safety may be challenged in applying current CSRs to an energy storage system (ESS).

What is a primary hazard in energy storage?

Resulting primary hazards may include fire, chemical, crush, electrical, and thermal. Secondary hazards may include health and environmental. EPRI's energy storage safety research is focused in three areas, or future states, defined in the Energy Storage Roadmap: Vision for 2025 .

How common are battery failures in energy storage systems?

According to EPRI, there have been just over 50 utility-scale battery failures globally over the past four years. (Fluence Global Director of Safety and Quality Barbara LaBarge giving a tour of a battery-based energy storage site)